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Reference values for the transformed Van Lieshout hand function test for tetraplegia.
A I F Spooren1, C Arnould, R J E M Smeets
11] Rehabilitation Sciences Adelante Centre of Expertise in Rehabilitation and Audiology, Hoensbroek, The Netherlands [2] Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Research School CAPHRI, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
Spinal Cord
|July 31, 2013
Summary
The Van Lieshout hand function test for tetraplegia (VLT-SF) was converted to an objective 0-100 scale (r_VLT-SF100). This new scale provides reference values to better predict hand function in tetraplegic patients during rehabilitation.
Area of Science:
- Rehabilitation medicine
- Neuroscience
- Biomedical engineering
Background:
- The Van Lieshout hand function test for tetraplegia (short form) (VLT-SF) was previously transformed into an interval scale (r_VLT-SF) using Rasch analysis.
- This transformation established the VLT-SF as an objective measurement tool for hand function in tetraplegia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To convert r_VLT-SF logit scores (r_VLT-SFlogit) into a 0-100 score (r_VLT-SF100) for improved user communication.
- To establish reference values for the r_VLT-SF100 to enhance the prediction of upper extremity skilled performance in individuals with tetraplegia.
Main Methods:
- A longitudinal cohort study was conducted using data from eight Dutch rehabilitation centers.
- Data from tetraplegic patients were collected at three time points: start of rehabilitation (t1), 3 months post-start (t2), and at discharge (t3).
- r_VLT-SF100 scores were computed, anchored on t2 data, and reference values were calculated for various subgroups based on lesion level and completeness.
Main Results:
- Data from 64 (t1), 73 (t2), and 69 (t3) patients were analyzed.
- r_VLT-SFlogit scores ranging from -4.78 to 6.32 were successfully transformed into r_VLT-SF100 scores (0-100).
- Reference values were established for subgroups with motor complete/incomplete lesions and high (C1-C6) or low (C7-T1) lesion levels at all time points, showing significant differences over time.
Conclusions:
- The r_VLT-SFlogit scores were effectively converted into the user-friendly r_VLT-SF100 scale.
- Reference values for the r_VLT-SF100 were established for different tetraplegic patient subgroups at various rehabilitation stages.
- The r_VLT-SF100 demonstrated its capability to detect improvements in hand function over the course of rehabilitation.
