Development of a core outcome set for traumatic brachial plexus injury

Abstract

: The aim of the present study was to reach international consensus on the minimum set of outcomes to measure and report in adult traumatic brachial plexus injury care and research. This would facilitate comparison of outcomes from different centres and meta-analysis in research. A list of outcomes was developed from a systematic review (n = 54) and patient interviews (n = 12). The outcomes were rated in a three-round online Delphi survey completed by international surgeons, patients and therapists. Two online consensus meetings with patients and clinicians ratified the final core outcome set. A total of 72 people (20 surgeons, 21 patients, 31 therapists) from 19 countries completed all survey rounds. Thirty-eight people from nine countries attended separate patient (n = 13) and clinician consensus (n = 25) meetings. Outcomes were included if recommended by more than 85% of contributors. Pain, voluntary movement and carrying out a daily routine are the core outcome domains that should be assessed and reported when treating and researching adults with a traumatic brachial plexus injury. Level of evidence: V.