Early neuromotor and sensory development in premature infants: An 18-month longitudinal follow-up study

Premature infants are at increased risk for neurodevelopmental challenges, including motor skill deficits, language delays, and cognitive impairments. Early assessment of neuromotor and sensory development is crucial for identifying developmental delays and implementing timely interventions. The aim of this study was to evaluate neuromotor and sensory development in premature infants over an 18-month corrected age period and to analyze changes in developmental trajectories during this time. In this prospective longitudinal study, 176 premature infants (born before 37 weeks gestation) were assessed at 1, 4, 8, 12, and 18 months of corrected age using the Neurological, Sensory, Motor, Developmental Assessment (NSMDA). The NSMDA scores showed clear improvement over time, with the biggest gains seen between the first and last assessments. Many infants who started with severe difficulties made significant progress, with some reaching a normal developmental range by 18 months. Additionally, a large portion of infants who were initially developing typically continued to do so throughout the study. The study underscores the potential for significant neuromotor and sensory development in premature infants within the first 18 months of corrected age. Regular early assessments and targeted interventions are essential to support optimal developmental outcomes in this vulnerable population.