Measuring outcome in median nerve injuries

Assessing the functional outcome of peripheral nerve suture in the hand requires a battery of tests which are valid, reliable and comprehensively evaluate cutaneous sensibility. This study explores the relationship between a battery of sensory tests and the patient's capacity to perform everyday functional activities. An analysis of the interrelationship between all outcome variables reveals that the tests of sensibility do not predict the patients' ability to use their hands in everyday activities, thus indicating that patients are able to compensate for sensory deficit through the use of vision and bilateral use of the hands. An assessment of outcome should therefore include an additional measure of performance on daily living tasks.