Table 5

Classification of outcomes assessed in randomized controlled trials of surgical interventions for CTS according to the domains and categories of the ICF

ICF – codes and category titles
Outcome measures – domains and instruments/scales used

Body function
B270 – sensory function of sensing temperature, vibration, pressure and noxious stimuli
touch thresholds (monofilaments or pressure-specifying device)

vibration (vibrometry or tuning forks)

two-point discrimination, static and moving

Self-reported numbness at night and day (BCTQ-Symptom Severity Scale or non-standardised method)
B280 – Sensations of pain (and paraesthesias)
frequency and intensity of pain (BCTQ-Symptom Severity Scale or non-standardised method)

Visual Analogue Scale for pain

McGill Pain Questionnaire
B730 – Muscle functions
Manual muscle testing

Thenar wasting/atrophy

Power and pinch grip dynamometry

self-reported weakness (BCTQ-Symptoms Severity Scale)
B134 – sleep functions, including amount and quality of sleep
Waking from nocturnal symptoms (BCTQ-Symptom Severity Scale)

Body structures
S198-Structures of the nervous system, specified (median nerve)
Nerve conduction studies/electrophysiological recording, interstitial pressures
S810-structure of areas of skin (incisionally related wounding and scarring on anterior heel of hand)
Pillar pain, scar tenderness, scar sensitivity, wound inflammation, appearance

Activities
D5 – self-care
D6 – domestic life
Use of hand in self-care activities (BCTQ-Functional Status Scale or non-standardised method)
D440 – fine hand use
D445 – hand and arm use
Timed hand function/dexterity tests (Jepsen, Purdue, 9-hole peg)

Participation
Participation in work and employment
Days taken to return to work
Satisfaction
Patient Satisfaction

Jerosch-Herold et al. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders 2006 7:96   doi:10.1186/1471-2474-7-96