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Background: Radial nerve injuries cause profound disability, and a variety of reconstruction options exist. This study aimed to compare outcomes of tendon transfers versus nerve transfers for the management of isolated radial nerve injuries. Methods: A retrospective chart review of 30 patients with isolated radial nerve injuries treated with tendon transfers and 16 patients managed with nerve transfers was performed. Fifteen of the 16 patients treated with nerve transfer had concomitant pronator teres to extensor carpi radialis brevis tendon transfer for wrist extension. Preoperative and postoperative strength data, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) scores, and quality-of-life (QOL) scores were compared before and after surgery and compared between groups. Results: For the nerve transfer group, patients were significantly younger, time from injury to surgery was significantly shorter, and follow-up time was significantly longer. Both groups demonstrated significant improvements in grip and pinch strength after surgery. Postoperative grip strength was significantly higher in the nerve transfer group. Postoperative pinch strength did not differ between groups. Similarly, both groups showed an improvement in DASH and QOL scores after surgery with no significant differences between the 2 groups. Conclusions: The nerve transfer group demonstrated greater grip strength, but both groups had improved pain, function, and satisfaction postoperatively. Patients who present early and can tolerate longer time to functional recovery would be optimal candidates for nerve transfers. Both tendon transfers and nerve transfers are good options for patients with radial nerve palsy.

Although intraoperative educational videos have become increasingly popular, comparatively few videos teach clinical reasoning for surgical procedures. The objectives of this study were to develop an engaging online video-based module to teach decision-making for cubital tunnel surgery, including supercharge nerve transfer, using a multimedia learning framework; and evaluate its effectiveness and use for continuing professional development.The educational module consisted of a prelecture knowledge assessment, choice of two self-guided video lectures (7 minutes and 28 minutes), and a postlecture knowledge assessment. An additional assessment examined knowledge retention 3 months after module completion. Surgeon surveys were administered after each knowledge assessment.A total of 279 surgeons participated in the educational module (75 percent practicing surgeons, 25 percent trainees), 112 surgeons completed the postlecture assessment, and 71 surgeons completed the knowledge retention assessment. Median score on the prelecture assessment was five out of 10 (interquartile range, four to seven). Scores improved by three points (10-point scale; p0.0001) in the postlecture assessment. Median score on the knowledge retention assessment was eight out of 10 (interquartile range, six to nine), with participants maintaining a two-point increase from their prelecture score ( p = 0.0002). Among surgeons completing this assessment, 68 percent reported that the module had changed their management of cubital tunnel syndrome.This study introduces a framework for the development of online multimedia modules for surgical education. It also underscores a demand among surgeons for easily accessible, reusable educational resources. Similar video-based modules may be developed to address this demand to facilitate continuing professional development in surgery.

Background: Peripheral nerve injuries may result in pain, disability, and decreased quality of life (QoL). Pain is an incompletely understood experience and is associated with emotional and behavioral qualities. We hypothesized that pain following peripheral nerve surgery could be predicted by changes in emotions or QoL postoperatively. Methods: Using prospectively collected data, a retrospective study design was used to evaluate the relationships among pain, QoL, and psychosocial factors in patients who underwent peripheral nerve surgery. Patients completed questionnaires rating pain; impact of pain on QoL, sadness, depression, frustration, anger, and hopefulness before surgery; and each postoperative follow-up visit. Multilevel modeling was used to assess the concurrent and lagged relationships between pain and psychosocial factors. Results: Increased pain was concurrently associated with decreased hopefulness ( P = .001) and increased the impact on QoL, sadness, depression, and anger ( P < .001). In lagged analyses, the impact on QoL and anger prospectively predicted pain ( P < .001 and P = .02, respectively). Pain predicted subsequent scores of QoL, sadness, depression, anger, and hopefulness ( P < .01). Having an upper limb nerve injury and self-report of “no comment for childhood trauma” were predictors of postsurgical pain. Conclusion: Psychosocial measures and pain are reciprocally related among patients who underwent surgery for peripheral nerve injuries or compression. Our study provides evidence of the important relationships among psychosocial factors, pain, and outcome and identifies treatment targets following nerve surgery.

Background: To better understand the occurrence and operative treatment of peripheral nerve injury (PNI) and the potential need for additional resources, it is essential to define the frequency and distribution of peripheral nerve procedures being performed. The objective of this study was to evaluate Ontario’s wait times for delayed surgical treatment of traumatic PNI. Methods: We retrieved data on wait times for peripheral nerve surgery from the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care Wait Time Information System. We reviewed the wait times for delayed surgical treatment of traumatic PNI among adult patients (age ≥ 18 yr) from April 2009 to March 2018. Data collected included total cases, mean and median wait times, and demographic characteristics. Results: Over the study period, 7313 delayed traumatic PNI operations were reported, with variability in the case volume distribution across Local Health Integration Networks (LHINs). The highest volume of procedures (2788) was performed in the Toronto Central LHIN, and the lowest volume (< 6) in the Waterloo Wellington and North Simcoe Muskoka LHINs. The population incidence of traumatic PNI requiring surgery was 5.1/10 000. The mean and median wait times from surgical decision to surgical repair were 45 and 27 days, respectively. Both the longest and shortest wait times occurred in LHINs with low case volumes. The provincial target wait time was met in 93% of cases, but women waited significantly longer than men (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The provincial distribution of traumatic PNI surgery was variable, and the highest volumes were in the LHINs with large populations. The provincial wait time strategy for traumatic PNI surgery is effective, but women waited longer than men. Precise reporting from all hospitals is necessary to accurately capture and understand the delivery of care after traumatic PNI.

PurposeTo describe the principles, process, and results of creating the International Consortium for Health Outcomes Measurement (ICHOM) standard set for hand and wrist conditions.MethodsFollowing the standardized methods of ICHOM, an international working group of hand surgeons, therapists, and researchers was assembled to develop an evidence-based, patient-centered, standard set of outcome measures for patients with hand and wrist conditions. Multiple systematic reviews were performed to support our choices of outcome domains and tools for hand and wrist conditions. Fourteen video conferences were held between March 2018 and March 2020, and a modified Delphi process was used.ResultsA consensus was reached on 5 measurement tracks: the thumb, finger, wrist, nerve, and severe hand trauma tracks, with a distinction between regular and extended tracks for which specific allocation criteria applied. The standard set contains a selection of outcome tools and predefined time points for outcome measurement. Additionally, we developed a hierarchy for using the tracks when there are multiple conditions, and we selected risk-adjustment, case-mix variables.ConclusionsThe global implementation of the ICHOM standard set for hand and wrist conditions may facilitate value-based health care for patients with hand and wrist conditions.Clinical relevanceThe ICHOM standard set for hand and wrist conditions can enable clinical decision making, quality improvement, and comparisons between treatments and health care professionals.

Restrictions placed during the COVID-19 pandemic to prevent viral spread led to substantial changes in surgical resident education. The aim of this study was to assess the positive and negative impact of COVID-19 on plastic surgery education and training and provide recommendations for continued competency.A cross-sectional online survey of plastic surgery residents across Canada was used to evaluate the impact of COVID-19 on clinical exposure, experience with virtual education, and long-term impact of COVID-19 on surgical training.This study included 61 plastic surgery residents (40% participation rate). Common educational modalities used during COVID-19 included online seminars (95%) and workshops (58%). Teaching sessions were effective if structured around patient cases (72%), recorded (66%), and limited to 1 hour (64%). There were mixed reactions towards online education sessions; residents reported feeling grateful (54%), motivated (38%), enthusiastic (28%), overwhelmed (41%), pressured to participate (23%), and anxious (13%). There were significantly less residents who felt that their clinical exposure was sufficient during (21%) versus before (72%) pandemic restrictions (During the initial wave of COVID-19, residents faced altered educational opportunities, which elicited positive and negative emotions with concern regarding surgical skill development and impact on future career plans. Characterizing early educational impact on residency training to identify opportunities for change is worthwhile as the overall effect of the pandemic is ongoing and remains uncertain.Les restrictions imposées pendant la pandémie de COVID-19 pour en éviter la propagation virale ont entraîné des changements importants dans la formation des résidents en chirurgie. La présente étude visait à évaluer les répercussions positives et négatives de la COVID-19 sur l’enseignement et la formation en chirurgie plastique et à formuler des recommandations sur le maintien des compétences.Les chercheurs ont utilisé un sondage transversal en ligne auprès des résidents en chirurgie plastique du Canada pour évaluer les répercussions de la COVID-19 sur l’exposition clinique, l’expérience de l’enseignement virtuel et les conséquences à long terme de la COVID-19 pour la formation en chirurgie.La présente étude incluait 61 résidents en chirurgie plastique (pour un taux de participation de 40%). Les modes d’enseignement couramment utilisés pendant la COVID-19 incluaient les séminaires en ligne (95%) et les ateliers (58%). Les séances d’enseignement étaient efficaces si elles étaient structurées autour de cas de patients (72%), enregistrées (66%) et se limitaient à une heure (64%). Les réactions étaient mitigées quant aux séances de formation en ligne. Les résidents ont déclaré se sentir reconnaissants (54%), motivés (38%), enthousiastes (28%), dépassés (41%), poussés à participer (23%) et anxieux (13%). Beaucoup moins de résidents avaient l’impression que leur exposition clinique avait été suffisante pendant les restrictions liées à la pandémie (21%) qu’auparavant (72%; p0,001). Dans l’ensemble, 87% des résidents trouvaient que la pandémie avait un effet négatif sur leur formation, l’acquisition de leurs compétences chirurgicales, leurs projets de surspécialité et leurs perspectives professionnelles.Pendant la première vague de COVID-19, les résidents ont dû composer avec des modifications à leurs possibilités de formation, qui ont donné lieu à des émotions positives et négatives et à des inquiétudes quant à l’acquisition de leurs habiletés chirurgicales et aux répercussions sur leur plan de carrière. Il est intéressant de caractériser les répercussions précoces sur la formation en résidence pour déterminer les occasions de changement, car l’effet global de la pandémie se poursuit et demeure incertain.

Systematic scoping review The purpose of this study was to understand the barriers to accessing upper extremity (UE) reconstructive surgery among those living with tetraplegia, and to identify gaps in knowledge. Using standardized scoping review methods, a literature search was conducted using four databases and 1069 articles were procured. Two independent reviewers systematically screened the articles in two phases. Retrieved articles underwent thematic analysis using a constructivist grounded theory methodology. The reviewed articles (n = 25) were published between 2002 and 2019, and study designs included: cross-sectional (64%), retrospective (16%), and review articles (8%). Common barriers to UE reconstruction were categorized into factors related to patients, providers, and systems. These general domains included lack of awareness of UE reconstruction and its benefits among people with tetraplegia and providers, poor interdisciplinary working relationships, and a lack of specialized centers that provide these reconstructive surgeries. Specific patient-related barriers related to intrinsic (coping skills, trust, fear) and extrinsic (support network, finances, postoperative course) factors that influenced decision-making. There are many barriers that prevent individuals with tetraplegia from accessing surgery at different levels of the healthcare system. Establishing specialized centers with strong interdisciplinary working relationships and raising awareness about the advantages and disadvantages of UE reconstruction through peer networks may help to improve accessibility. Using a value-based, patient-centered approach by exploring how individuals with SCI weigh each decision factor when considering surgery may help providers develop treatment options that better align with their goals.

Treatment of trans-scaphoid perilunate injuries of the wrist presents a clinical challenge for patients and the treating hand surgeon. In the past, traditional treatment consisted of combined volar and dorsal approaches, repair of all of the involved ligaments, screw fixation of the scaphoid fracture, and immobilization until the scaphoid is radiographically united. We describe a volar approach that allows for decompression of the carpal tunnel, repair of the rent in the Space of Poirier, and direct internal fixation of the scaphoid fracture with a staple (scaple) that allows for early range of motion. We have used this approach in 18 patients at a Level 1 Trauma Center with satisfactory clinical outcomes.

People with cervical spinal cord injury (SCI) identify improving upper extremity (UE) function as a top priority. In addition to comprehensive rehabilitation, UE surgeries, including nerve and tendon transfers, enhance function. However, barriers exist to disseminating information about surgical options to enhance UE function.To assess the experiences and preferences of people with cervical SCI and their caregivers in accessing information about surgery to enhance UE function.Prospective cohort study. Participants were followed up for 24 months and completed up to three interviews.Tertiary care at academic and affiliated Veterans Administration Health Care Centers.Adults with cervical SCI (n = 35) ages 18 to 80 years with mid-cervical SCI American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale A, B, or C (at least 6 months post-injury) and their caregivers (n = 23) were eligible to participate. Participants were enrolled in three groups: nerve transfer, tendon transfer, or no UE reconstructive surgery.Not applicable.Semi-structured interviews about surgical knowledge and experiences.Data were analyzed and three themes were identified. First, providing information about UE surgical options early post-injury was recommended. The acute or inpatient rehabilitation phases of recovery were the preferred times to receive surgical information. Second, challenges with information dissemination were identified. Participants learned about UE surgery through independent research, medical provider interactions, or peers. Third, peers were identified as valuable resources for SCI needs and surgical information.Following cervical SCI, information about UE reconstructive surgeries should be a standard component of education during rehabilitation. An increased understanding of the reconstructive options available to improve UE function is necessary to educate stakeholders. Future research is needed to support the development of strategies to effectively present surgical information to individuals with SCI and health care providers.

Although aromatase inhibitors are the first-line treatment in postmenopausal women with hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, there is increasing evidence that they can induce carpal tunnel syndrome and stenosing tenosynovitis. This systematic review summarizes the risk factors, incidence, and management for patients with aromatase inhibitor-induced carpal tunnel syndrome and stenosing tenosynovitis compared to tamoxifen or placebo.A Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses-guided systematic review of PubMed/MEDLINE, Ovid Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials was conducted (to March 19, 2020), supplemented with Google Scholar, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, and The Journal of Hand Surgery. Two reviewers independently completed the primary and secondary screens and the quality appraisal.This study reviewed 577 abstracts and included 19 studies. Risk factors for aromatase inhibitor-induced carpal tunnel syndrome or stenosing tenosynovitis included hormone replacement therapy before trial entry, history of musculoskeletal symptoms, age younger than 60 years, prior chemotherapy, and body mass index greater than 25 kg/m2. The incidence can be increased up to 10 times compared to tamoxifen. Patient discontinuation of aromatase inhibitor treatment because of carpal tunnel syndrome and stenosing tenosynovitis was reported. Nonsurgical management led to complete resolution of carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms in up to 67 percent of cases. Although most aromatase inhibitor-induced stenosing tenosynovitis original studies were low quality, all recommended surgical release for symptom resolution.This study provides current knowledge of the associated risk factors, management options, and quality of literature for aromatase inhibitor-induced carpal tunnel syndrome and stenosing tenosynovitis. Early recognition can prevent self-discontinuation of an aromatase inhibitor and long-term sequelae of poorly treated carpal tunnel syndrome and stenosing tenosynovitis.

Nerve transfer (NT) surgery can improve function in people with cervical spinal cord injury (SCI). However, the impact of donor nerve deficits remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to quantify donor deficits experienced by individuals with cervical SCI following NT.This prospective single-arm, comparative study included people with SCI undergoing upper extremity NTs. Myometry was used to assess muscle strength at baseline and follow-up. The Spinal Cord Independence Measure was used to measure the ability to perform activities of daily living.Ten individuals underwent 20 NTs to restore elbow extension (donor, posterior deltoid; n = 2), hand opening (donor, supinator; n = 7), and hand closing (donor, brachialis; n = 11). Shoulder abduction strength decreased (-5.6% at early and -4.5% late follow-up) in the elbow extension NT. Wrist extension strength decreased at early (-46.9% ± 30.3) and increased by late (76.4% ± 154.0) follow-up in the hand opening NT. No statistically significant change in elbow flexion strength was noted in the hand closing NT. Spinal Cord Independence Measure scores did not change significantly between baseline and early postoperative follow-up; they improved at late follow-up.Use of expendable donor nerves with redundant function to perform NT surgery has relatively little impact on strength or capacity to perform activities of daily living, even in the unique and highly vulnerable SCI population. Early, temporary loss in wrist extension strength can be seen after the supinator to posterior interosseous nerve transfer. This study offers quantitative data about possible diminution of donor function after NT, enabling hand surgeons to better counsel individuals contemplating upper extremity reconstruction.Prognostic I.

Background: Despite increased public awareness to dispose of unused narcotics, opioids prescribed postoperatively are retained, which may lead to drug diversion and abuse. This study assessed retention of unused opioids among hand surgery patients and describes disposal methods and barriers. Methods: Participants undergoing hand surgery were given an opioid disposal information sheet preoperatively (N = 222) and surveyed postoperatively to assess disposal or retention of unused opioids, disposal methods, and barriers to disposal. A binomial logistic regression was conducted to assess whether age, sex, pain intensity, and/or the type of procedure were predictors of opioid disposal. Results: There were 171 patients included in the analysis (n = 51 excluded; finished prescription or continued opioid use for pain control). Unused opioids were retained by 134 patients (78%) and disposal was reported by 37 patients (22%). Common disposal methods included returning opioids to a pharmacy (49%) or mixing them with an unwanted substance (24%). Reasons for retention included potential future use (54%), inconvenient disposal methods (21%), or keeping an unfilled prescription (9%). None of the patient factors analyzed (age, sex, type of procedure performed, or pain score) were predictors of disposal of unused narcotics ( P > .05). Conclusions: Most patients undergoing hand surgery retained prescribed opioids for future use or due to impractical disposal methods. The most common disposal methods included returning narcotics to a pharmacy or mixing opioids with unwanted substances. Identifying predictors of disposal may provide important information when developing strategies to increase opioid disposal.

Retrospective cohort study.To quantify spontaneous upper extremity motor recovery between 6 and 12 months after spinal cord injury (SCI) to help guide timing of nerve transfer surgery to improve upper limb function in cervical SCI.Nineteen European SCI rehabilitation centers.Data was extracted from the European Multicenter Study of SCI database for individuals with mid-level cervical SCI (N = 268). Muscle function grades at 6 and 12 months post-SCI were categorized for analysis.From 6 to 12 months after SCI, spontaneous surgically-relevant recovery was limited. Of all limbs (N = 263) with grade 0-2 elbow extension at 6 months, 4% regained grade 4-5 and 11% regained grade 3 muscle function at 12 months. Of all limbs (N = 380) with grade 0-2 finger flexion at 6 months, 3% regained grade 4-5 and 5% regained grade 3 muscle function at 12 months.This information supports early (6 month) post-injury surgical consultation and evaluation. With this information, individuals with SCI can more fully engage in preference-based decision-making about surgical intervention versus continued rehabilitation and spontaneous recovery to gain elbow extension and/or hand opening and closing.

This study evaluated the validity of the factor structure of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire to assess upper extremity disability in patients with upper extremity nerve injury.Data were used from previous cross-sectional studies of patients with upper extremity nerve injuries. Research ethics approval was obtained for secondary data analyses. Descriptive and factor analyses were performed.Patients (n = 242; 170 men and 72 women) with upper extremity nerve injury included distal nerve (n = 131), brachial plexus (n = 88), and single proximal shoulder nerve (n = 23). The mean Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire score was 47.3 ± 22. For the questionnaire, a three-factor structure had the highest variance and no overlap between factors. The factors related to (1) light effort tasks, (2) greater effort tasks, and (3) work/social activity limitations and pain. Brachial plexus injuries had significantly higher overall questionnaire scores compared to distal and single proximal nerve injuries. The light effort factor scores were significantly lower in single proximal nerve injuries compared with brachial plexus and distal nerve injuries. Nondominant compared to dominant hand involvement revealed no difference in overall questionnaire scores but significantly higher dominant hand scores in the light effort factor (p = 0.001).In patients with nerve injury, the factor analysis of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire indicated a multifactor construct. These domains should be considered when using the questionnaire and may be helpful to assess disability related to specific tasks in different nerve injuries and with dominant hand involvement.

Study Design Prospective cohort. Introduction Successful nonoperative treatment of mallet finger injuries requires compliance to prolonged immobilization and understandable educational materials. Purpose of the Study This study evaluated the use of written and online video education tools after mallet finger injury. Methods After ethics board approval and informed consent, adults with an acute mallet finger injury referred to hand therapy were included. Standard nonoperative treatment was instituted with orthotic immobilization and verbal instructions, in addition to an education pamphlet and an online video link. A questionnaire regarding the educational materials was administered at the follow-up appointment. Results There were 61 patients (mean age, 42 ± 14 years). The middle (n = 21) and ring (n = 22) fingers were most commonly injured. All patients were fluent in English. Written instructions (n = 57) were used by more patients than the videos (n = 30). Comparing patients who viewed the video with those who did not, there were no differences (P > .05) in demographics (sex, age, education, work status, and second language). Both written and video instructions were reported as helpful; mean helpful score for the video was significantly (P = .03) higher than written instructions. Most patients preferred having written and video instructions, and both were easy to understand and convenient. Discussion In our study of patients with acute mallet finger injuries, written and video instructions were utilized and both were reported as helpful. Conclusions This study provides evidence of the usefulness of online videos as an educational aid and the opportunity for future investigations to improve patient access to education materials.

Disability reflects physical impairment and the influence of psychosocial factors. We investigated the relationship between disability and psychosocial factors in patients with upper extremity pathology. Ninety-two patients at a hand clinic were evaluated to assess disability, pain intensity, health status and psychosocial factors (pain catastrophizing, depression). Statistical analyses evaluated the relationships among disability and patient and psychosocial factors. Moderate levels of disability from all types of pathology were reported and associated with pain catastrophizing, pain and depression. Health status Short Form 36 domains were not correlated with disability as determined by Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) scores. A strong correlation was found between DASH and QuickDASH scores, but the QuickDASH scored significantly higher by 4 points. Pain catastrophizing was the strongest predictor of disability and explained 59% and 63% of variation in disability scores. Independent of pathology, those patients experiencing psychosocial issues, as well as demographic factors (i.e. employment status and age), were more likely to have disability with hand conditions and surgical procedures. We conclude from this study that psychological factors affect patient-reported outcomes. Level of evidence: IV

The aim of this study was to review the literature to determine the prevalence of cold sensitivity in upper extremity nerve compression syndromes and the impact of treating nerve compression syndromes on cold sensitivity.Following a standardized scoping review protocol, this study included interventional and observational study designs assessing patients with cold sensitivity and upper extremity nerve compression syndromes. Review articles, case reports, and small case series (n5) were excluded. The abstracts and eligible full texts were screened by 2 independent reviewers. Data were extracted and reported according to PRISMA extension for scoping reviews statement.Three databases were searched (Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid EMBASE, and CINAHL on EBSCO); 274 references were reviewed. Fifteen studies from the database search and 8 studies from the reference search were eligible for this review (n = 23). Two interventional and 21 observational studies were identified. The most common method for assessing cold sensitivity was cold pain threshold testing (n = 12), followed by subjective patient reporting (n = 4). The Cold Intolerance Symptom Severity questionnaire was the most common validated patient-reported outcome questionnaire used in the studies (n = 3). Cold sensitivity was most commonly reported in carpal tunnel syndrome (96% of the studies). The prevalence of cold sensitivity in nerve compression syndromes ranged from 20% to 69%. Nerve decompression improved the severity of cold sensitivity in 5 of 6 studies where cold sensitivity was studied.There is heterogenicity in the studies assessing cold sensitivity in nerve compression syndromes. Despite moderate prevalence in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome, cold sensitivity is understudied. Within the limitations of eligible studies reviewed, surgical decompression improved the severity of cold sensitivity in some studies.Therapeutic IV.

Systematic scoping review OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to understand the barriers to accessing upper extremity (UE) reconstructive surgery among those living with tetraplegia, and to identify gaps in knowledge.Using standardized scoping review methods, a literature search was conducted using four databases and 1069 articles were procured. Two independent reviewers systematically screened the articles in two phases. Retrieved articles underwent thematic analysis using a constructivist grounded theory methodology.The reviewed articles (n = 25) were published between 2002 and 2019, and study designs included: cross-sectional (64%), retrospective (16%), and review articles (8%). Common barriers to UE reconstruction were categorized into factors related to patients, providers, and systems. These general domains included lack of awareness of UE reconstruction and its benefits among people with tetraplegia and providers, poor interdisciplinary working relationships, and a lack of specialized centers that provide these reconstructive surgeries. Specific patient-related barriers related to intrinsic (coping skills, trust, fear) and extrinsic (support network, finances, postoperative course) factors that influenced decision-making.There are many barriers that prevent individuals with tetraplegia from accessing surgery at different levels of the healthcare system. Establishing specialized centers with strong interdisciplinary working relationships and raising awareness about the advantages and disadvantages of UE reconstruction through peer networks may help to improve accessibility. Using a value-based, patient-centered approach by exploring how individuals with SCI weigh each decision factor when considering surgery may help providers develop treatment options that better align with their goals.

Facial palsy can cause the impairment of eye closure and affect blink, ocular health, communication, and esthetics. Dynamic surgical procedures can restore eye closure in patients with decreased facial nerve function. There are no standardized measures of voluntary and spontaneous eye closure that are used to evaluate the outcomes of blink restoration procedures. The purpose of this systematic literature review was to identify the measures used to assess normal and abnormal eye closure and blinking in patients with facial palsy. A literature search of the PubMed database using the keyword “facial nerve/surgery” was conducted. Only English language articles that pertain to the use of facial paralysis assessment systems published in the past 20 years, which involve eyelid closure were included. There were 57 articles that used a facial paralysis classification system with an eyelid closure component: House-Brackmann Facial Nerve Grading Scale (n = 43, 67%); Sunnybrook Facial Grading Scale (n = 9); palpebral fissure heights (n = 4), and the electronic clinician-graded facial function tool (n = 3) and three additional measures were reported once. Although the Terzis and Bruno Scoring System, blink ratio, and electronic, clinician-graded facial function scale(eFACE) Clinician-Graded Scoring System were valid measures of eyelid closure, there was no one comprehensive eye assessment that demonstrated all aspects of eye closure in facial palsy, which include closure amplitude, spontaneity, and quality of life. For blink assessment, eFACE is the most comprehensive tool currently available and recommended to be used with a patient-reported quality of life supplement that captures the specific domains related to facial nerve dysfunction.

Background Bone reconstruction is frequently required for corrective osteotomy of the forearm long bones. Studies have evaluated long term outcomes but not the impact of these procedures on early postoperative complications and health care utilization. Questions/Purposes This study evaluated the early postoperative health care utilization following corrective osteotomy of the radius and/or ulna. Patients and Methods The American College of Surgeons' National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) was the primary data source to perform a comparative statistical analysis of the bone autograft and nonautograft (allograft, graft substitute, or no graft) procedures. We performed a review of the NSQIP database (2005–2013) to evaluate patients who underwent a corrective osteotomy of the radius and/or ulna. Results There were 362 cases; autograft (n = 117) and nonautograft (n = 245). There were no significant differences with demographics or comorbidities. The majority of cases were outpatient surgeries and there were no significant differences in anesthesia time, operative time, or hospital length of stay. Overall, the average length of stay was 0.6 days, readmission rate was 2%, and the total complication rate was 1% and there was no statistically significant difference between reconstruction groups. Harvesting of autograft was not associated with the overall 30-day complications and specific markers of health care utilization. Conclusions Our results are derived from the heterogeneous hospital setting of NSQIP contributing centers. The health care utilization and 30-day complications are low following corrective osteotomy of forearm long bones and autograft harvest did not influence the health care utilization. Level of Evidence Therapeutic Level II.

Vascularized composite allotransplantation of the hand is technically feasible and is the only option to recover a lost hand after amputation. However, universal acceptance of this surgical reconstruction as a medical standard of care has not been achieved for the uncertainty of outcome after surgery.1 We performed an exploratory study to examine the neurophysiologic changes in the somatosensory and primary motor cortices after hand transplant.

Background: Surgical thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) management involves decompression of the neurovascular structures by releasing the anterior and/or middle scalene muscles, resection of the first and/or cervical ribs, or a combination. Various surgical approaches (transaxillary, supraclavicular, infraclavicular, and transthoracic) have been used with varying rates of complications. The purpose of this study was to evaluate early postoperative outcomes following surgical decompression for TOS. We hypothesized that first and/or cervical rib resection would be associated with increased 30-day complications and health care utilization. Methods: The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database was reviewed for all TOS cases of brachial plexus surgical decompression in the region of the thoracic inlet from 2005 to 2013. Results: There were 225 patients (68% females; mean age: 36.4 years ± 12.1; 26% body mass index [BMI] ⩾ 30). There were 205 (91%) patients who underwent first and/or cervical rib resection (±scalenectomy), and 20 (9%) underwent rib-sparing scalenectomy. Compared with rib-sparing scalenectomy, rib resection was associated with longer operative time and hospital stays ( P < .001). In the 30 days postoperatively, 8 patients developed complications (rib-scalenectomy, n = 7). Only patients with rib resection returned to the operating room (n = 10) or were readmitted (n = 9). Conclusions: Early postoperative complications are infrequent after TOS decompression. Rib resection is associated with longer surgical times and hospital stays. Future studies are needed to assess the association between early and long-term outcomes, surgical procedure, and health care utilization to determine the cost-effectiveness of the various surgical interventions for TOS.

Health literacy is the extent to which patients are able to understand and act upon health information. This concept is important for surgeons as their patients have to comprehend the nature, risks and benefits of surgical procedures, adhere to perioperative instructions, and make complex care decisions about interventions. Our review aimed to determine the prevalence of limited health literacy of the surgical patient population. A search of MEDLINE and EMBASE was performed from inception until January 14th 2017 for experimental and observational studies reporting surgical patients' health literacy measurement. Overall pooled proportion of surgical patients with limited health literacy was calculated using a random-effects model and methodologic quality was assessed. A total of 40 studies representing 18,895 surgical patients were included in our quantitative synthesis. Pooled estimate of limited health literacy was 31.7% (95%CI 24.7-39.2%, I2 99.0%). There was low risk of bias among the majority of the 51 studies included in the qualitative synthesis. Statistical heterogeneity could not be fully accounted for by methodologic quality or patient and surgical characteristics. However, some of the heterogeneity was accounted by measurement tool [combined proportions with the REALM and NVS of 35.6 (95%CI 31.5-39.9, I2 73.0%)]. A number of different health literacy measurement tools were used (19 overall). Our review demonstrates a high prevalence of limited health literacy among surgical patients with considerable heterogeneity. Our findings suggest the importance of recognizing and addressing surgical patients with limited health literacy and the need for standardization in measurement tools.

Background: Scapholunate advanced collapse (SLAC) is the most common pattern of wrist arthritis. Sparse data exist regarding the SLAC wrist pattern of arthritis. This study aimed to document the epidemiology of advanced SLAC in terms of patients’ sociodemographics and possible association with trauma. Methods: Sixty-one patients with severe SLAC wrist were included. Baseline sociodemographic characteristics were reviewed. To evaluate the relationship to injury, this group of cases was compared with a control group of 61 patients with first carpometacarpal osteoarthritis (CMC OA). The following data were collected for both groups: age, gender, history of traumatic injury, history of manual labor, duration of symptoms, and dominant hand involvement. Pearson chi-square tests for categorical variables and independent samples t test for continuous variables were performed to determine differences between groups. Results: Patients with SLAC wrist were more likely to be male (80.3% vs 31.1%; p

Needlestick injury prevalence, protection practices, and attitudes were assessed. Current medical students were compared with 2003 data to assess any changes that occurred with engineered safety feature implementation.Risk of occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens is elevated in the operating room particularly with surgeons in training and nurses.A cross-sectional survey was distributed to medical students (n = 358) and Department of Surgery staff (n = 247).The survey response rate was 24.8%. Needlestick injuries were reported by 38.7% of respondents (11% high risk), and the most common cause was "careless/accidental." Needlestick injury prevalence increased from medical students to residents and fellows (100%). Thirty-three percent of injured personnel had at least one unreported injury, and the most common reason was "inconvenient/too time consuming." Needlestick injury prevalence and double-glove use in medical students did not differ from 2003, and 25% of fellows reported always wearing double gloves. The true seroconversion rate for bloodborne pathogens was underestimated or unknown. The concern for contracting a bloodborne pathogen significantly decreased (65%) compared to 2003, and there were significantly less medical students with hepatitis B vaccinations (78.3%). Level of concern for contracting a bloodborne pathogen was predictive of needlestick injury.Needlestick injury and occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens are significant hazards for surgeons and nurses. Attitudes regarding risk are changing, and the true seroconversion risk is underestimated. Educational efforts focused on needlestick injury prevalence, seroconversion rates, and double-glove perforation rates may be effective in implementing protective strategies.

To investigate perceptions of surgical participants and their caregivers regarding novel nerve transfer surgery to restore upper extremity function in cervical level spinal cord injury.A qualitative study design was used. A multidisciplinary team developed semi-structured interview guides. Interviews were recorded, transcribed and analyzed using basic text analysis.Participants had limited information about procedures to improve function after spinal cord injury. When discussing their choice to undergo nerve (as compared to traditional tendon) transfer surgery, they describe a desire to avoid post-operative immobilization. Barriers included the pre-operative testing, cost and inconvenience of travel for surgery, and understanding complex health information related to the procedure. While expectations matched descriptions of outcomes among participants and were generally positive, caregivers expressed disappointment. The long time interval for gains in function to be realized and relatively incremental gains achieved were frustrating to all.People with cervical spinal cord injury and their caregivers need more information about options to restore function and about realistic range of improvements with treatment. Further work to mitigate barriers and develop health information materials around nerve transfer surgery may improve medical decision making around and appropriate use of this newer treatment option.IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONNerve transfer surgery is a novel and acceptable means of improving upper extremity function in the setting of cervical spinal cord injury.People with cervical spinal cord injury and their caregivers need information about options to restore hand and arm function and mitigation of barriers around these treatment options.

Background: Median nerve entrapment in the forearm (MNEF) without motor paralysis is a challenging diagnosis. This retrospective study evaluated the clinical presentation, diagnostic studies, and outcomes following surgical decompression of MNEF. Methods: The study reviewed 147 patient medical charts following MNEF surgical decompression. With exclusion of patients with combined nerve entrapments (radial and ulnar), polyneuropathy, neurotmetic nerve injury, or median nerve motor palsy, the study sample included 27 patients. Data collected include: clinical presentation and pain, strength, provocative testing, functional outcomes, and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) scores. Results: The study included 27 patients (mean follow-up = 7 months), and 13 patients had previous carpal tunnel release (CTR). Clinical presentation included pain (n = 27) (forearm, n = 22; median nerve innervated digits, n = 21; and palm, n = 21) and positive clinical tests (forearm scratch collapse test, n = 27; pain with compression over the flexor digitorum superficialis arch/pronator, n = 24; Tinel sign, n = 11). Positive electrodiagnostic studies were found for MNEF (n = 2) and carpal tunnel syndrome (n = 11). Primary CTR was performed in 10 patients and revision CTR in 7 patients. Postoperatively, there were significant ( P < .05) improvements in strength, pain, quality of life, and DASH scores. Conclusions: The MNEF without motor paralysis is a clinical diagnosis supported by pain drawings, pain quality, and provocative tests. Patients with persistent forearm pain and median nerve symptoms (especially after CTR) should be evaluated for MNEF. Surgical decompression provides satisfactory outcomes.

Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text., Summary: In this review, we present the current role of nerve transfers in the management of nerve injuries. The outcome of a literature review comparing the results of nerve graft versus nerve transfer and the experience of select surgical societies’ members regarding experience and adoption of nerve transfer are reported. Nerve transfer publications have increased more than nerve graft or repair articles. The surgeon survey revealed an increase in nerve transfers and that more motor nerve transfers have been adopted into practice compared to sensory nerve transfers. The meta-analyses and systematic reviews of motor nerve transfers for shoulder and elbow function presented variable outcomes related to donor nerve selection. Comprehensive patient assessment is essential to evaluate the immediate functional needs and consider future reconstruction that may be necessary. Optimal outcome following nerve injury may involve a combination of different surgical options and more than one type of reconstruction. Nerve transfer is a logical extension of the paradigm shift from nerve repair and nerve graft and offers a new rung on the reconstruction ladder.

Summary Decisional conflict represents a state of uncertainty regarding an action one must take. It is a concept inherent to shared decision-making and can help promote high-quality and patient-centred decisions in surgical care, leading to better outcomes. Specific elements may cause more uncertainty or decisional conflict for patients: lack of knowledge about risks and benefits, poorly defined personal values about the importance of those risks and benefits, perception of a lack of support, unpredictable outcomes, or the impression that an inadequate decision has been made. Decisional conflict can be measured in the surgical setting using the 16-item validated patient-reported Decisional Conflict Scale (DCS). Better understanding of the reasons behind high decisional conflict can help surgeons support high-quality decisions and lead to more satisfactory outcomes and less decisional regret.

This study evaluated the use of digital smartphone images in the decision-making for acute upper extremity trauma referrals. Surgeons ( n = 15) were presented with ten upper limb trauma scenarios for consideration of immediate transfer. Based on verbal history and with additional images, participants were asked questions regarding diagnosis, injured tissues, recommended management and diagnostic and treatment confidence. Statistical analyses evaluated confidence level changes and relationships between confidence levels and independent variables. Confidence levels for diagnosis and treatment were increased with the provision of smartphone images, and this was statistically significant. The decision to transfer was changed in 22%. The photographs were more useful for amputation versus non-amputation injuries (diagnosis and treatment) and hand versus forearm injuries (diagnosis), and these differences reached statistical significance. Smartphone digital images were shown to be useful for decision-making in acute upper extremity trauma referrals. This improved communication may have implications for health cost savings and patient burden by minimizing unnecessary acute transfers. Level of Evidence: Diagnostic Level III

Background: Upper extremity transplantation has been performed to improve quality of life, the benefit which must be traded off for the risk created by life-long immunosuppression. We believe the process of decision analysis is well suited to improve our understanding of these trade-offs. Method: We created a decision tree to include a branch point to illustrate the expected recovery of useful function in the transplant, using the best estimates for utility and probability that exist. Results: Our model revealed that when the probability of achieving a good result, graded as Chen level one or two is greater than 73%, transplantation is preferred over no transplantation. The decision is sensitive to the probability of major complications and the utility of a transplanted limb with minimal function. Conclusions: The results of this analysis show that under some circumstances given a high probability of satisfactory functional recovery, unilateral hand transplantation can be justified.

Ensuring that distal interphalangeal joint extension is maintained is an important but challenging part of the treatment process. These authors describe a simple approach to ensuring distal interphalangeal joint extension for these patients . – V ictoria P riganc , PhD, OTR, CHT, CLT , Practice Forum Editor