German translation and linguistic validation of the HAND-Q

Hand injuries can severely affect physical function and quality of life. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) are vital for capturing patient perspectives. The HAND-Q is a validated, modular PROM developed for individuals with hand conditions. To support its use in German-speaking populations, a culturally adapted German version was needed.

Translation and linguistic validation followed WHO and ISPOR guidelines. Two independent forward translations were reconciled by an expert panel, followed by a backward translation compared with the original English version. Discrepancies were resolved with the HAND-Q developers. Eight patients with upper extremity injuries participated in cognitive debriefing interviews to assess clarity and cultural relevance.

Minor discrepancies during translation were related to response consistency, cultural nuances, and gender-neutral language and were resolved through expert consensus. Cognitive interviews led to revisions in five items. The final German (Switzerland) HAND-Q includes 14 scales and 133 items, maintaining conceptual equivalence with the original.

The German HAND-Q was successfully translated and validated for clinical and research use. It enables standardized assessment of outcomes in German-speaking patients with hand conditions, supporting both patient-centred care and hand surgery research.