# Neurodevelopmental outcome in preterm infants with intraventricular hemorrhages: the potential of quantitative brainstem MRI

## TL;DR

This study explores how brainstem MRI metrics in preterm infants with brain bleeds relate to their developmental outcomes, suggesting MRI could help identify at-risk babies.

## Contribution

The study introduces quantitative brainstem MRI metrics as potential predictors of neurodevelopmental outcomes in preterm infants with intraventricular hemorrhage.

## Key findings

- T2 relaxation time in the midbrain correlated strongly with cognitive, motor, and language scores at one year.
- Multi-dynamic multi-echo MRI sequences may enhance sensitivity in neonatal neuroimaging.
- Quantitative MRI could aid in identifying preterm infants at risk for poor developmental outcomes.

## Abstract

This retrospective study aimed to identify quantitative magnetic resonance imaging markers in the brainstem of preterm neonates with intraventricular hemorrhages. It delves into the intricate associations between quantitative brainstem magnetic resonance imaging metrics and neurodevelopmental outcomes in preterm infants with intraventricular hemorrhage, aiming to elucidate potential relationships and their clinical implications.

Neuroimaging was performed on preterm neonates with intraventricular hemorrhage using a multi-dynamic multi-echo sequence to determine T1 relaxation time, T2 relaxation time, and proton density in specific brainstem regions. Neonatal outcome scores were collected using the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development. Statistical analysis aimed to explore potential correlations between magnetic resonance imaging metrics and neurodevelopmental outcomes.

Sixty preterm neonates (mean gestational age at birth 26.26 ± 2.69 wk; n = 24 [40%] females) were included. The T2 relaxation time of the midbrain exhibited significant positive correlations with cognitive (r = 0.538, P < 0.0001, Pearson’s correlation), motor (r = 0.530, P < 0.0001), and language (r = 0.449, P = 0.0008) composite scores at 1 yr of age.

Quantitative magnetic resonance imaging can provide valuable insights into neurodevelopmental outcomes after intraventricular hemorrhage, potentially aiding in identifying at-risk neonates. Multi-dynamic multi-echo sequence sequences hold promise as an adjunct to conventional sequences, enhancing the sensitivity of neonatal magnetic resonance neuroimaging and supporting clinical decision-making for these vulnerable patients.