J Perinatol. 2025 Feb 21. doi: 10.1038/s41372-024-02207-8. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: We aimed to characterize general movements in neonates with congenital gastrointestinal anomalies and to compare them to general movements in extremely low birth weight (ELBW) infants.
STUDY DESIGN: This was a retrospective, single-site study. Subjects were divided into two groups: those with gastrointestinal (GI) anomalies and ELBW infants (birth weight <1 kg). The primary outcome was general movement assessments.
RESULT: Ninety-six infants were included (n = 51, GI group and n = 45, ELBW group). The rates of abnormal general movements between the groups were comparable (writhing movements: 61% vs. 59%, p = 0.89; fidgety movements: 20% vs. 36%, p = 0.13). Writhing movements were different (100% poor repertoire, 0% cramped synchronous in the GI group vs. 50% poor repertoire and 50% cramped synchronous in the ELBW group, p < 0.001).
CONCLUSION: Infants with gastrointestinal anomalies are at risk for abnormal general movements. Abnormal fidgety general movements may be an early biomarker for future motor deficits.
PMID:39979435 | DOI:10.1038/s41372-024-02207-8
