Article

Aim Motor skill impairment is a common negative outcome in children born preterm
who do not develop cerebral palsy (CP). This study aimed to conduct a systematic
review of current data to provide an accurate estimate of the prevalence of
non-CP motor impairment in preterm children at school age. Method We searched the
Medline, PubMed, and PsycInfo databases and relevant journals to identify all
studies published post-1990 that reported the prevalence of motor impairment in
school-aged children born preterm (<37wks' gestation) using standardised motor
assessment batteries. We applied a range of exclusionary criteria, with 11
studies included in the final analyses. We identified two levels of motor
impairment commonly reported - mild-moderate and moderate - and conducted a
random effects meta-analysis to produce a prevalence estimate for each. Results
The pooled estimate for mild-moderate impairment in preterm children was
40.5/100. and for moderate motor impairment the estimate was 19.0/100. There was
also a trend for lower motor impairment levels in samples born before 1990
compared with those born after 1990. Interpretation Children born preterm are at
increased risk of motor impairment, with prevalence three to four times greater
than in the general population. This highlights the need for improved surveillance and intervention strategies in this group of children.

Langue : ANGLAIS