Abstract
The present study serves to establish Patient Reported Outcomes (PROs) as a tool
for strengthening patient involvement and measuring outcomes in orthopaedic
outpatient rehabilitation. Assessments by FFbH-R (Hannover Back Function
Questionnaire for patients with back problems), Quick-DASH (Disabilities of Arm,
Shoulder, and Hand Score for patients with upper extremity lesions), and LEFS
(Lower Extremity Function Scale for patients with lower extremity lesions) were
employed in 20 outpatient rehabilitation centres over a period of 12 months to
evaluate changes in performance and participation from the subjective patient
perspective. The following questionnaires were used: FFbH-R status post: lumbar
disc surgery; cervical disc surgery; spinal canal decompression; conservative
back pain treatment; other; Quick-DASH status post: rotator cuff reconstruction;
shoulder arthroplasty; fracture (conservative or osteosynthesis); other; LEFS
status post: hip arthroplasty; knee arthroplasty; anterior cruciate ligament
repair; osteotomy; fracture (conservative treatment or osteosynthesis); other.
Analysis of the 6,751 usable data sets demonstrated significant positive changes
in all scores and diagnostic subgroups. The mean difference in score was 14.2
points in the FFbH-R, − 22 points in the Quick-DASH and 18 points in the LEFS.
Thus, this study proves the positive effects of orthopaedic rehabilitation in an
outpatient setting. PROs were instituted on a permanent basis in seven of the
participating institutions.
Key words
rehabilitation - outpatient - orthopedics - patient involvement - Patient Reported Outcome
