Clinimetric Properties of Self-reported Disability Scales for Whiplash: A Systematic Review for the Whiplash Core Outcome Set (CATWAD)
Authors:
Griffin, A. R., Leaver, A. M., Arora, M., Walton, D. M., Peek, A., Bandong, A. N., Sterling, M., and Rebbeck, T.
Abstract:
OBJECTIVES: A core outcomes set (COS) for whiplash associated disorders (WAD) has been proposed to improve consistency of outcome reporting in clinical trials. Patient-reported disability was one outcome of interest within this COS. The aim of this review was to identify the most suitable tool for measuring self-reported disability in WAD, based on clinimetric performance.
METHODS: Database searches took place in two stages. The first identified outcome measures used to assess self-reported disability in WAD, and the second identified studies assessing the clinimetric properties of these outcome measures in WAD. Data on study, population and outcome measure characteristics were extracted, along with clinimetric data. Quality and clinimetric performance were assessed in accordance with the Consensus-based Standards for the Selection of Health Status Measurement Instruments (COSMIN).
RESULTS: Of 19,663 records identified in stage 1 searches, 32 were retained following stage 2 searches and screening. Both the WDQ and NDI performed well in reliability (ICC 0.84-0.98), construct validity (74-82% of hypotheses accepted) and responsiveness (majority of correlations in accordance with hypotheses). Both received Category B recommendations due to a lack of evidence for content validity.
DISCUSSION: This review identified the NDI and WDQ as the most appropriate PROMs for assessing self-reported disability in WAD based on moderate to high quality evidence for sufficient reliability, construct validity and responsiveness. However, the content validity of these PROMs has yet to be established in WAD and until this is undertaken, it is not possible to recommend one PROM over the other for inclusion in the WAD COS.
Diseases of and symptoms related to the musculoskeletal system and connective tissue Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes
