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Updated: Aug 10, 2026

Assessment and Evaluation of the High Risk Neonate: The NICU Network Neurobehavioral Scale
Published on: August 25, 2014
[Long-term fate of very-low-birth-weight children]
Insights
Most extremely low birth weight infants who survive intensive care experience developmental outcomes, with early screening and intervention improving long-term prognosis for these high-risk neonates.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal intensive care
- Pediatric neurology
- Developmental pediatrics
Context:
- Extremely low birth weight (ELBW) infants (≤1,250 g) face significant risks.
- Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admissions highlight the vulnerability of these infants.
- Long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes require thorough investigation.
Purpose:
- To assess the neurodevelopmental outcomes of ELBW infants followed up for approximately 4 years.
- To identify risk factors and patterns of sequelae in this high-risk population.
- To evaluate the feasibility of early screening and the role of prenatal factors.
Summary:
- Of 75 ELBW neonates admitted, 34 were followed up. 44% were normal, 35% had minor sequelae, 14.7% moderate, and 6% major sequelae.
- No cases of hydrocephalus, severe encephalopathy, deafness, or blindness were observed.
- Growth retardation affected 12 children; all with sequelae had significant neonatal neurological involvement.
Impact:
- Early identification of neurodevelopmental disorders in ELBW survivors is possible.
- Antenatal and maternal factors are crucial for predicting neonatal risks.
- Improved obstetrician-pediatrician collaboration can optimize management for ELBW premature infants.
Abstract:
75 neonates with birth weights less than or equal to 1,250 g were admitted to a neonatal intensive care unit. 34 were followed up for about 4 years. 44% (15) of the surviving children are normal; 35% (12) present with minor sequellae compatible with normal familial, social and school life; 14.7% (5) presents with moderate sequellae; 6% (2) present with major sequellae. None presents with hydrocephalus, bedridden encephalopathy, deafness or blindness. Among these 34 children, 12 have growth retardation. All children with sequellae presented with important neurologic involvement during the neonatal period. No silent period was observed during follow-up. An early screening for the disorders is possible. The neonatal risks, often unappreciated or underestimated are, in most cases, foreseeable when taking into account the mother's history and course of pregnancy. Thanks to improvement of in utero screening techniques, proper cooperation between obstetricians and pediatricians should allow for selecting a better management for all very low birth weight prematures.
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