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Rheumatoid hand surgery: differing perceptions amongst surgeons, rheumatologists and therapists in the UK
F D Burke1, S M Miranda, V M F Owen
1Pulvertaft Hand Centre, Derbyshire Royal Infirmary, London Road, Derby, UK. frank.burke@virgin.net
The Journal of Hand Surgery, European Volume
|July 2, 2011
Summary
Discrepancies exist in how rheumatologists, hand surgeons, and therapists perceive rheumatoid hand surgery indications and outcomes. This highlights a need for clearer communication within multidisciplinary teams for consistent patient advice.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Rheumatology
- Hand Surgery
Background:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic autoimmune disease impacting joints, often requiring multidisciplinary care.
- Effective management of RA, particularly hand involvement, necessitates collaboration among rheumatologists, hand surgeons, and therapists.
- Variations in professional opinions can potentially compromise patient care pathways.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate and compare the perceptions of UK-based rheumatologists, hand surgeons, and hand therapists regarding rheumatoid hand surgery.
- To identify differences in the perceived indications for and expected outcomes of common rheumatoid hand operations among these specialist groups.
Main Methods:
- A postal questionnaire survey was distributed to rheumatologists, hand surgeons, and hand therapists in the United Kingdom.
- Respondents were asked to rate key indications for commonly performed rheumatoid hand surgeries.
- Effectiveness of surgical procedures in reducing pain, improving function, aesthetics, and preventing deformity was scored by participants.
Main Results:
- Statistically significant differences were identified between rheumatologists, hand surgeons, and therapists concerning the primary indications for rheumatoid hand surgery.
- Significant variations were also observed among the three professional groups regarding the expected outcomes of these surgical interventions.
- Discrepancies were noted in the perceived effectiveness of surgical procedures for pain relief, functional improvement, aesthetic enhancement, and deformity prevention.
Conclusions:
- Substantial differences in perception exist among rheumatologists, hand surgeons, and therapists regarding rheumatoid hand surgery.
- Further research is warranted to clarify surgical indications and expected outcomes for rheumatoid hand operations.
- Establishing consistent advice for patients requires a unified understanding within the multidisciplinary team managing rheumatoid hand disease.
