Exploring how music affects brain development in preterm infants

The Effect of Music on Functional Processing and Structural and Functional Development of the Preterm Infant's Brain

Not applicable Interventional Pediatric Clinical Research Platform · NCT03689725

This study tests whether listening to music can help the brain development of preterm infants born between 33 and 37 weeks, compared to full-term newborns.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment63 (estimated)
Ages33 Weeks to 42 Weeks
SexAll
SponsorPediatric Clinical Research Platform Academic / other
Locations1 site (Geneva)
Trial IDNCT03689725 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the impact of music intervention on the brain development of preterm infants through MRI scans and neurodevelopmental assessments. It focuses on infants born between 33 and 37 weeks of gestational age, as well as full-term newborns. The research aims to determine whether exposure to music can positively influence neurological outcomes in these vulnerable populations. By comparing brain development metrics, the study seeks to provide insights into the potential benefits of music therapy for preterm infants.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are preterm infants born between 33 and 37 weeks of gestational age and full-term newborns aged 37 to 42 weeks.

Not a fit: Patients with neurological issues or malformations, as well as those requiring continuous positive airway pressure without a pause, may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance brain development in preterm infants, potentially leading to improved long-term neurological outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of using music for brain development in preterm infants is relatively novel, there have been other studies exploring music therapy's benefits in various populations, suggesting potential for success.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Preterm infants: 33 weeks \< gestational age \< 37 weeks
* Full-term newborns: 37 weeks gestational age \< 42 weeks

Exclusion Criteria:

* Neurological issues or malformations (such as III-IV stade Intraventricular hemorrhage, micro or macrocephaly, hydrocephaly...)
* Because of the high noise caused by nasal continuous positive airway pressure (nCPAP), preterm newborns without at least nCPAP pause before 32 6/7 gestational age will be excluded

Where this trial is running

Geneva

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Prematurity
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.