Reliability of a Condensed Computer-Based Patient Outcomes Scoring Tool in Orthopaedic Trauma Patients

Abstract

To determine the reliability of a condensed computer-based patient-centered outcome score system versus multiple standard uncondensed validated outcome scores used in orthopaedic trauma. Prospective. Level I Trauma Center. One hundred patients older than 18 years with various orthopaedic injuries were evaluated at a Level I Trauma Clinic. Study participants were randomly assigned to complete the paper-based and computer-based versions of the EQ-5D and musculoskeletal functional assessment at different times during the same visit. Score variability between the computer-based and paper-based versions. The average score difference between the computer-based and paper-based musculoskeletal functional assessment was 0.50, with an SD of 6.03 and a 95% confidence interval of -0.71 to 1.71. For the EQ-5D, the average score difference was 0.12 with an SD of 0.20 and a 95% confidence interval of -0.05 to 0.05. Because patient-centered outcomes drive the direction of orthopaedic care, it is critical to collect patient data efficiently while minimizing responder burden. This condensed web-based adaptive outcome tool reliably produced similar scores when compared with individual paper scores, and it decreased responder burden and error.