The researchers conducted a PubMed study of five orthopedic journals looking for spine articles published between 2004 and 2013. There were 1,079 articles using patient-reported outcomes instruments; all articles were chosen based on readership and impact factor, and had at least one PROI.
Here are five key notes from the study:
1. Thirty-two percent of the studies were level-four evidence.
2. Around half — 48.9 percent — were focused on thoracolumbar conditions.
3. There were 206 unique PROIs in the study chosen for inclusion.
4. The top instruments used were:
• Visual analog scale
• Oswestry disability index
• Short Form-36
• Japanese Orthopaedic Association Outcome Questionnaire
• Neck Disability Index
• Scoliosis Research Society-22
5. The researchers concluded, “Although there are preferred patient-reported outcome measures, a consensus or guideline addressing which instrument should be used for a particular diagnosis or procedure may be warranted.”
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