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Sollerman hand function test. A standardised method and its use in tetraplegic patients
1Department of Orthopaedics, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Göteborg, Sweden.
Summary
A new standardized hand function test accurately measures daily living activities for tetraplegic patients. Test scores correlate with functional classification and are impacted by sensation, aiding in treatment evaluation.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Hand Surgery
Background:
- Standardized assessment tools are crucial for evaluating hand function in patients with tetraplegia.
- Existing methods may not comprehensively capture the complexities of daily living activities affected by hand impairment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a standardized hand function test for tetraplegic patients.
- To evaluate the validity and reliability of this novel assessment tool.
Main Methods:
- The test is based on seven common hand grips and includes 20 activities of daily living.
- Procedure and scoring methods were detailed, followed by validity and reliability testing.
- Fifty-nine tetraplegic patients were assessed pre-operatively.
Main Results:
- The hand function test scores showed a strong correlation with the International Functional Classification of the patient's arm (r = 0.76, p < 0.001).
- Patients lacking tactile sensation demonstrated significantly lower mean test scores compared to those with tactile gnosis (p < 0.001).
Conclusions:
- The developed hand function test is a valid and reliable measure for tetraplegic patients.
- The test's sensitivity to sensory deficits highlights its utility in assessing functional limitations and guiding reconstructive surgery outcomes.