Use of the Motor Optimality Score-Revised (MOS-R) to predict neurodevelopmental outcomes in infants with congenital anomalies.

AIMS

To describe the Motor Optimality Score-Revised (MOS-R) in infants with congenital anomalies requiring major surgery in the neonatal period; and to determine the predictive validity of the MOS-R, including specific movement and postural patterns, for neurodevelopmental outcomes at 3 years of age.

METHOD

A retrospective cohort study of 201 infants born with congenital anomalies requiring surgery in the neonatal period (mean gestational age 38.2 weeks, SD 2.2). MOS-R completed using the pre-recorded General Movements Assessment (GMA) videos taken at 12 to 14 weeks post-term age (mean 12.45, SD 1.54). Developmental outcomes were assessed at 3 years of age (38.13 months, SD 1.76) using the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development (3rd ed).

RESULT

The mean score for the MOS-R was 21.85 (SD 5.16), with scores ranging from 6 to 28. Fifty-six infants (27.9 %) scored within the optimal range (25-28) with only 12 % demonstrating a normal movement character. A MOS-R total score of <21 was identified as the best performing cut-off to predict a mild, moderate or severe delay or CP diagnosis with sensitivity 0.39 (95 % CI: 0.25, 0.54) and specificity 0.86 (95 % CI: 0.80, 0.91), and an area under the ROC curve of 0.63. Outcome at 3 years was significantly associated with the MOS-R total (p < 0.01) and the subscales for observed movement patterns (p < 0.01) and age adequate repertoire (p = 0.02).

CONCLUSION

The MOS-R may be an effective tool to use in addition to existing assessments to identify infants who are at risk of adverse developmental outcomes. Our study found that a MOS-R of <21 identified infants who would benefit from referral to early intervention.