Abstract
Study DesignDescriptive study. IntroductionA delayed return to work (RTW) is often associated with poorer outcomes after a workplace injury but is ill defined. Purpose of the StudyTo define delayed RTW after surgery for nontraumatic upper extremity conditions. MethodsExperts were consulted to define delayed RTW and whether a universal time point can determine the transition from early to delayed RTW. ResultsForty-two experts defined a delayed RTW as either a worker not returning to preinjury (or similar) work within the expected time frame (45%); not returning to any type of work (36%); or recovering slower than expected (12%). Two-thirds of experts believed that universal time points to delineate delayed RTW should be avoided. DiscussionMultiple factors complicate a uniform definition of delayed RTW. ConclusionDefining delayed RTW should be individualized with due consideration to the type of work. Time-based cutoffs for outcome measurement may not be appropriate with continuous measures more appropriate in research. Level of EvidenceDecision analysis V.
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