OP08.02: Association between fetal brain diffusion weighted imaging and postnatal neurodevelopmental outcomes after prenatal spina bifida repair

To compare fetal brain diffusion weighted imaging (DWI) between prenatally SB repaired infants with “typical” versus “delayed” postnatal neurodevelopmental (ND) outcomes. Retrospective study of 73 prenatally spina bifida (SB) repaired infants. ADC values were obtained from preoperative fetal MRI-DWI scans and 6 weeks post-surgery. ND outcomes were evaluated between 18-30 months using Capute scales by a pediatrician and/or the Developmental Profile 3 (DP3) test during parents interviews. Scores were classified as “Typical” (>85%) or “Delayed” (< 85%) after being compared to normative data. ADC values between infants with “typical” versus “delayed” ND scores were compared using logistic regression analyses adjusting by the infant's age at testing and gestational age at fetal MRI scan. DWI was acquired in 55 fetuses before surgery (22.5[20.8-23.9] weeks) and in 50 fetuses at 6 post-op weeks scan (30.7[30.1-31.6] weeks). There were no differences in the pre-op ADC values between infants with “typical” versus “delayed” ND scores. At 6 post-op weeks, ADC values were significantly higher in all studied areas in infants with “delayed” Capute tests scores compared to those with “typical” scores (see figure 1). ADC values were significantly higher in fetuses with “delayed” DP3 scores in cognition and communication areas in the Frontal, Parietal, Temporal, Occipital lobes, cerebellum as well as pons compared to fetuses with “normal” DP-3 scores (see figure 1). Infants with “delayed” cognition and communication skills showed significant differences in their fetal brain microstructure measured 6 weeks post SB repair. Please note: The publisher is not responsible for the content or functionality of any supporting information supplied by the authors. Any queries (other than missing content) should be directed to the corresponding author for the article.