Outcome instruments for prosthetics: clinical applications

Allen W Heinemann; Lauri Connelly; Linda Ehrlich-Jones; Stefania Fatone

doi:10.1016/j.pmr.2013.09.002

Outcome instruments for prosthetics: clinical applications

Phys Med Rehabil Clin N Am. 2014 Feb;25(1):179-98. doi: 10.1016/j.pmr.2013.09.002.

Authors

Allen W Heinemann¹, Lauri Connelly, Linda Ehrlich-Jones, Stefania Fatone

Affiliation

¹ Center for Rehabilitation Outcomes Research, Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, 345 E Superior Street, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 710 North Lake Shore Drive, #1022, Chicago, IL 60611, USA. Electronic address: a-heinemann@northwestern.edu.

PMID: 24287247
DOI: 10.1016/j.pmr.2013.09.002

Abstract

Outcome measurement is crucial to assuring high-quality patient services and improving the quality of services provided by prosthetists. This article summarizes recent evidence on the measurement properties of outcome measures, and updates previously published summaries of outcome instruments. The review focuses on measures of mobility, functional status, quality of life, and patient satisfaction, and includes both performance-based and patient-reported outcomes. Amputation-specific and general measures that are suitable for patients served by prosthetists are discussed. It is encouraging that responsiveness of measures is often reported, as this information is needed to improve clinical utility.

Keywords: Amputation; Artificial limbs; Assessment of patient outcomes; Outcome and process assessment (health care); Prostheses; Treatment outcome.

Publication types

Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
Review

MeSH terms

Activities of Daily Living
Amputation, Surgical / rehabilitation*
Artificial Limbs*
Humans
Lower Extremity
Outcome and Process Assessment, Health Care / methods*
Patient Satisfaction
Postural Balance
Quality of Life*
Surveys and Questionnaires*
Upper Extremity
Walking