Applying the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System to Assess Upper Extremity Function among

Jennifer F Waljee1, Noelle Carlozzi, Lauren E Franzblau

  • 1Ann Arbor, Mich. From the Section of Plastic Surgery and the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Michigan Medical School.

Insights

The Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) is a valid and efficient tool for assessing upper extremity function in children with congenital hand differences. It correlates well with other measures and physical assessments.

Area of Science:

  • Orthopedics
  • Pediatric Rehabilitation
  • Outcome Measurement

Background:

  • Limited research exists on self-assessment tools for pediatric congenital hand differences.
  • Evaluating existing instruments against the PROMIS Pediatric Upper Extremity Item Bank is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare the validity and feasibility of three upper extremity disability instruments with the PROMIS Pediatric Upper Extremity Item Bank.
  • To assess the utility of PROMIS in children with congenital hand differences.

Main Methods:

  • Thirty-three children (6-17 years) with congenital hand differences completed four self-assessment tools: PODCI, MHQ, DASH, and PROMIS UE (short form and CAT).
  • Hand function was objectively assessed.
  • Construct validity and feasibility of the PROMIS tools were examined.

Main Results:

  • PROMIS demonstrated strong construct validity, with high correlations to DASH (r=0.80) and PODCI (r=0.70) scores.
  • PROMIS showed moderate correlation with MHQ (r=0.40) and significant correlation with grip (r=0.60) and pinch strength (r=0.50).
  • PROMIS required less completion time and less assistance compared to other instruments.

Conclusions:

  • PROMIS is a highly correlated and valid patient-reported outcome measure for children with congenital hand differences.
  • PROMIS offers a feasible and efficient alternative for assessing upper extremity function in this population.
Abstract

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