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A Systematic Review of Neurodevelopmental Tools for Preterm Infants During Infancy: Mapping the Components Across
Vadivelan Kanniappan1, Manikumar Muthiah1, J R Abishek1
1SRM College of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu, India.
Summary
Early screening for preterm birth impairments is crucial. This review maps neurodevelopmental assessment tools for infants, highlighting the need for validated, accessible options in India.
Area of Science:
- Neurodevelopmental disorders
- Pediatric neurology
- Public health
Background:
- Rising preterm birth rates necessitate early detection of related impairments.
- Current neurodevelopmental assessment tools are often complex and difficult to administer.
- There is a need for accessible screening methods for preterm infants, particularly in India.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and map components of available neurodevelopmental assessment tools for preterm infants.
- To create a quick reference guide for clinical practice in India.
- To identify the need for psychometric validation of tools in the preterm population.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of PubMed, Scopus, ProQuest, and gray literature (2000-2023).
- Keywords: preterm newborns, neurodevelopmental assessment.
- Analysis focused on mapping tool components across infant age quarters.
Main Results:
- 30 tools were identified; 10 were included due to accessibility.
- Primitive reflexes are key in the first quarter for early red flag detection.
- Most tools lack specific psychometric validation for preterm populations, questioning their validity and geographical sensitivity.
Conclusions:
- A critical need exists to establish psychometric properties of identified tools in preterm infants.
- Mapped components can serve as a practical reference for healthcare professionals.
- Developing a comprehensive, low-training tool is essential for low- and middle-income countries like India.
