[Positive rolandic sharp waves, periventricular ischemia and neurologic outcome. Prospective study in 66 premature...

A prospective study concerning 66 prematures born after 32 weeks of gestation showed a 33% incidence of positive rolandic sharp waves (PRSW) on EEGs. The results showed a good sensitivity (Se = 95%) and specificity (Sp = 93%) of PRSW for the diagnosis of periventricular ischemia with motor sequelae. A PRSW frequency higher than one per minute and its persistence on 2 successive EEGs constitutes an indication of severity of the lesions. This study emphasizes the necessity of several EEG recordings in prematures.