Period prevalence of positional head deformations and implications for practice in a large tertiary neonatal unit.

Aim: To establish the prevalence of positional head deformations (PHDs) within a neonatal unit (NU) setting, and to evaluate the subsequent impact that PHDs have on NU graduates and their families.

Methods: A prospective audit was conducted over a six-week period within a tertiary NU (Brisbane, Australia). Eligible babies were measured weekly using a craniometer where presence, type and severity of PHD were determined.

Infant massage and brain maturation measured using EEG: A randomised controlled trial.

Background: Very preterm (VPT) infants develop adverse neurological sequelae from early exposure of the immature brain to the extrauterine environment.

Aims: To determine the effects of infant massage on brain maturation in low-risk VPT infants.

Study Design: A randomised controlled trial of VPT infants, who received standard care or daily massage therapy, administered by the mother, from 34 weeks' to 40 weeks' corrected age (CA).

PREMM: preterm early massage by the mother: protocol of a randomised controlled trial of massage therapy in very preterm infants.

Background: Preterm infants follow an altered neurodevelopmental trajectory compared to their term born peers as a result of the influence of early birth, and the altered environment. Infant massage in the preterm infant has shown positive effects on weight gain and reduced length of hospital stay. There is however, limited current evidence of improved neurodevelopment or improved attachment, maternal mood or anxiety.