Understanding Brain Reorganization in Infants With Perinatal Stroke Through Neuroexcitability and Neuroimaging. Issue 2 (April 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Chen, Chao-Ying; Georgieff, Michael; Elison, Jed; Chen, Mo; Stinear, James; Mueller, Bryon; Rao, Raghavendra; Rudser, Kyle; Gillick, Bernadette
• Is Part Of: Pediatric physical therapy. Volume 29:Issue 2(2017:Summer)
• Publication Date: 2017-04
• Subjects: brain reorganization -- cerebral palsy -- general movements assessment -- infant -- magnetic resonance imaging -- perinatal stroke -- transcranial magnetic stimulation; Physical therapy for children -- Periodicals; 615.820832
• DOI: 10.1097/PEP.0000000000000365
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0898-5669

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: The primary aim of this proposed study is to evaluate brain reorganization patterns in infants with perinatal stroke between 3 and 5 months of age using transcranial magnetic stimulation and magnetic resonance imaging, with the addition of the General Movements Assessment. A secondary aim is to demonstrate feasibility and safety of infant-appropriate brain assessment protocols. Methods: Ten infants with perinatal stroke will be enrolled. In this exploratory study, infants will first receive magnetic resonance imaging scanning during natural sleep to examine their corticospinal tract integrity. Infants will then receive transcranial magnetic stimulation to assess their corticomotor excitability. A General Movements Assessment video of at least 5 minutes will also be recorded. Discussion: Study results will enhance our understanding of brain reorganization in infants with perinatal stroke. We expect these results will also guide the development of early interventions designed to mitigate maladaptive neuroplastic changes and improve long-term motor outcomes. Abstract : This presents a safe and feasible protocol for measuring brain reorganization patterns in infants with stroke using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).