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Long-term patient reported outcomes and quality of life after syndactyly separation
Noora Nietosvaara1, Niko Kämppä2,3, Yrjänä Nietosvaara3,4
1Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Helsinki University Hospital, University of Eastern Finland, Finland.
Introduction:
We assessed the long-term quality of life, cosmesis and pain after childhood syndactyly separation.
Methods:
A retrospective review identified 155 patients (⩾10-year follow-up) of whom 76 participated with a median follow-up period of 18.2 years (IQR 12.4 to 38.3). Patient-reported outcomes were assessed using the Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire, EuroQol-5 Dimension-5 Level, and visual analogue scales (0-10) for function, cosmesis and pain.
Results:
Uncomplicated cases had significantly better patient reported outcomes (0 vs. 11.4 and 1.0 vs. 0.89; p < 0.01), and higher functional scores (9.0 vs. 7.0, p < 0.05) and cosmetic scores (8.2 vs. 7.0, p > 0.05). Complicated cases presented with more cold intolerance (58 vs. 14%, p < 0.01). Pain scores were similar in both groups, with 16-18% reporting some pain in the past week.
Conclusion:
Syndactyly reconstruction yields satisfactory subjective long-term outcomes. Complicated cases had poorer function and more cold sensitivity but remained overall favorable.
Level Of Evidence:
IV.
