Vision Assessments and Interventions for Infants 0-2 Years at High Risk for Cerebral Palsy: A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Ophthalmology
• Neurology
• Developmental Pediatrics

Background:

• Cerebral palsy (CP) affects motor function and can lead to visual impairments.
• Infants at high risk for or diagnosed with CP require specialized vision assessments and interventions.
• Cortical visual impairment is a significant concern in this population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and evaluate the evidence for vision interventions and assessments in infants (0-2 years) with or at high risk for CP.
• To assess the methodologic quality, level of evidence, and clinical utility of identified studies.
• To provide recommendations for evidence-based practices.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review of studies published on vision interventions and assessments for infants with CP.
• Evaluation of articles based on methodologic quality, level of evidence, and clinical utilization.
• Inclusion of 30 publications on vision assessments and 5 on vision interventions.

Main Results:

• Vision assessments included neuroimaging, electrophysiology, and neuro-ophthalmologic examinations, commonly used in preverbal/nonverbal children.
• Interventions showed strong evidence for neuroprotective methods (e.g., caffeine, hypothermia) but weak evidence for surgery, visual training, or developmental programs.
• Few evidence-based interventions and assessments specifically address cerebral/cortical visual impairment in this age group.

Conclusions:

• There is a paucity of robust evidence for vision interventions and assessments tailored to infants with CP and related visual impairments.
• Standard care methodologies and specific neuroprotective interventions are recommended.
• Further research is needed to develop and validate effective vision interventions for this vulnerable population.