The motor profile of preterm infants at 11 y of age

Abstract

Background:Preterm infants are at a higher risk for poor motor outcome than term infants. This study aimed to describe the long-term motor profile in very preterm born children.Methods:A total of 98 very preterm infants were included. Volumetric brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed at term age, and the Movement Assessment Battery for Children - Second Edition (The Movement ABC-2) was employed at 11 y of age. The diagnosis of Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) was determined at 11 y of age according to the International Classification of Diseases.Results:Eighty-two of 98 (84%) very preterm infants had normal motor development at 11 y of age. In these children, the mean percentile for the total test score in the Movement ABC-2 examinations was 42 (SD 20). Eight (8%) children had DCD. The mean percentile in these children was 4 (SD 2). Eight (8%) children had CP. Their mean percentile was 6 (SD 14). Decreased volumes in all brain regions associated with lower Movement ABC-2 total scores.Conclusion:The majority of the very preterm infants had normal motor development at 11 y of age. Volumetric brain MRI at term age provides a potential tool to identify risk groups for later neuromotor impairment.