Developing a core outcome set for hand flexor tendon injuries: a systematic review of treatment outcomes

This study identifies the outcome domains used in recently published studies on the treatment of hand flexor tendon injuries in adults, in order to inform the development of a core outcome set (COS). Seven databases were searched from January 2013 to March 2023 for randomized and quasi-randomized studies, trial registrations, large observational studies, database studies and systematic reviews. From the 91 eligible original studies/trial registrations, the primary outcome was appropriately identified in only 52% (13/25) of randomized and quasi-randomized controlled trials. We identified 419 author-defined outcomes, further categorized into 147 distinct outcomes and mapped into 72 outcome domains according to the World Health Organization International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health framework. The large heterogeneity in the outcome domains being assessed/measured across studies highlights the need for a consistent COS to be measured in future clinical research on hand flexor tendon injuries.