Assessment of general movements and its relation to gestational age in preterm infants

Aneta Skworc


Aneta Skworc – Assessment of general movements and its relation to gestational age in preterm infants. Fizjoterapia Polska 2022; 22(2); 88-95

Abstract
Introduction. The task of contemporary neonatology is not only to save the lives of children born prematurely, but also to provide them with the highest possible quality of life. One of the methods of assessing the quality of general movement patterns is the Prechtl method, which enables early identification of immaturity or damage to the central nervous system. Aim. Dynamic assessment of the type and quality of GMs (General Movements) in preterm infants to determine the indications for early neurodevelopmental support and to determine the relationship between the occurrence of maternal and neonatal perinatal risk factors, and the type and quality of general movements. Material and method. Assessment was conducted in 90 infantsborn between 28 and 36 weeks gestational age. Dominant cases (57 cases) were infants brn between32 and 36 weeks GE. Most cases (48) received low Apgar score at 1 minute (≤ 7), including two born in very severe condition. The study included three GM assessments: I –up to 14 day post-natally, II at term and III between12 and 15 weeks corrected age. The analysis included gestational age, general condition of the newborn in Apgar score. Results. There is a close correlation with the gestational age of a preterm newborn, and the occurrence of damage to the nerve centers and the finding of abnormal global movements.It was confirmed that gestational age is important variables affecting the occurrence of abnormal general movements.
Key words:
general movements, preterm infants, perinatal risk factors, neurodevelopmental physiotherapy
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Developmental evaluation of premature baby based on Prechtl’s method assessment of spontaneous motor activity

Liliana Klimont, Zbigniew Szot

Liliana Klimont, Zbigniew Szot – Developmental evaluation of premature baby based on Prechtl’s method assessment of spontaneous motor activity. Fizjoterapia Polska 2006; 6(2); 157-162

Abstract

Background. The objective of this study was to observe and evaluate development of premature baby using Prechtl’s method of assessment of general movements. Qualitative assessment of spontaneous motor activity can be additional to neurological examination as well as determine objective prognosis for future psychomotor development and indicate abnormal movement patterns. It also gives possibility to begin appropriate stimulation of development. Material and methods. Motor spontaneous activity was assessed in case of premature baby born in 25 week of gestation with extremly low birth weight (670 g). We assessed changes in quality of general movements based on video recordings done in expected birth date, 1-st, 2-nd, 4-th, 6-th and 12-th week of corrected age. After 15 months of life we calculate motor quotient. Results. Evaluation of repeated video recordings indicated predominant poor repertoire character of spontaneous motor activity. That also indicated real danger for future development and determine decision to start therapy. Next recording made in 52 week of gestational age showed lack of normal fidgety movements, but equally appeared voluntary movements and manipulation. Conclusions. Relay on Prechtl’s method we indicate abnormal motor activity during firsts weeks of life. We decide to began therapy with continuous observation of spontaneous motor activity. Hypothetically we minimized danger of developmental delay. Assessment of general movement enables early detection of abnormal motor patterns and provides realistic prognosis for future development as well as minimize possible developmental menace. There is an urgent need to observe later development of pre-mature babies, esspecially those with extremely low birth weight and immature nervous and other systems.

Key words:
premature baby, spontaneous motor activity, general movements
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