Early clinical and MRI biomarkers of cognitive and motor outcomes in very preterm born infants.

We present associations between 32- and 40-week MRI, comprehensive clinical assessments and later 2-year motor and cognitive outcomes for children born <31 weeks gestation. MRI and clinical assessment of motor, neurological and neurobehavioural function earlier than term equivalent age in very preterm infants is safe and becoming more available in clinical settings. Most of these children are discharged from hospital before term age and so completing assessments prior to discharge can assist with follow up. MRI and neurological assessment prior to term equivalent age while the child is still in hospital can provide earlier identification of children at highest risk of adverse outcomes and guide follow-up screening and intervention services.