Altered cerebral oxygen extraction and metabolism in preterm neonates and the relationship to anemia: a non-contrast MRI study

Motivation: The effect of preterm birth on cerebral oxygenation and its underlying mechanism have not been fully elucidated. Goal(s): The goal of current study is to evalute cerebral oxygenation with non-contrast MRI techniques in a group of preterm-born neonates. Approach: Cerebral oxygen extraction fraction (OEF) and metabolic rate of oxygen (CMRO2) were measured with TRUST MRI together with cerebral blood flow (CBF) in 50 neonates. Results: We showed that neonates with lower gestational age had higher OEF, lower CBF and lower CMRO2, controlling for postmenstrual age. Higher OEF was associated with higher Apgar score. Hematocrit significantly mediated the increase of OEF in preterm neonates. Impact: The results suggested a potential role of MRI-based oxygenation measurement in the assessment of transfusion and intervention for preterm neonates.