Report on the Evidence-Based Practice Committee's Survey on Benign Neoplastic Hand Disease

This study aims to evaluate and understand the knowledge and practice patterns of the American Society for Surgery of the Hand (ASSH) members regarding the evidence-based management of benign neoplastic hand diseases (BNHD). The goal is to identify areas of educational deficiency and variability in clinical approaches.

In the fall of 2022, a 17-question survey was sent via email to ASSH members. The survey included evidence-based practice (EBP) questions with definitive correct answers, and practice pattern (PP) questions that focused on controversial clinical scenarios without a single correct answer. Responses were collected and analyzed to determine the percentage of correct answers for EBP questions and to identify consensus or variability among PP questions.

Out of 356 respondents, over 50% correctly answered 6 out of 12 EBP questions, indicating a strong knowledge base in certain areas of BNHD management. The remaining six EBP questions revealed knowledge gaps, particularly in the management of giant cell tumors and enchondromas. The PP questions showed variability in practice approaches, reflecting diverse clinical decision making among members.

The survey identified both strengths and areas for improvement in ASSH members' understanding of evidence-based management of BNHD. These findings suggest a need for specific educational initiatives to address knowledge gaps and promote more consistent EBPs within the field of hand surgery.

Understanding current knowledge levels and PPs among hand surgeons can help target and develop educational strategies to improve the management of benign hand tumors, thereby enhancing future patient care and outcomes.