FETOS A Self-Questionnaire for Functional Evaluation in Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Objective Thoracic outlet syndrome is caused by the compression of blood vessels and nerves leading to the upper limbs; the level of functional discomfort in activities of daily living can be significant. This discomfort has been evaluated using a variety of nonspecific scales, prompting the development a specific self-questionnaire (Functional Evaluation in Thoracic Outlet Syndrome). Here, the scale's test-retest reliability, sensitivity to change, and criterion validity were assessed. Design Between May 2015 and July 2017, a total of 37 patients were assessed during an intensive rehabilitation program. The Functional Evaluation in Thoracic Outlet Syndrome self-questionnaire comprises 16 items rated on a 4-point scale: impossible, major discomfort, moderate discomfort, or no difficulty. A total score is then calculated and the usual level of discomfort is rated on a numerical scale. The questionnaire was completed on day (D)1, D2, and the day of discharge. Results The questionnaire showed very good test-retest reliability, with an overall correlation coefficient above 0.91. The overall score was highly sensitive to change, with a significant median improvement (-5.89) between D1 and discharge (P < 0.001). Of the 16 items, 9 showed significant scalability in their individual sensitivity to change. The criterion validity was moderate: the coefficient for the correlation with the numerical scale was 0.68 on D1 (P < 0.001), 0.55 on D2 (P < 0.001), and 0.69 at discharge (P < 0.001). Conclusions The Functional Evaluation in Thoracic Outlet Syndrome self-questionnaire is a quick, simple way of assessing the impact of thoracic outlet syndrome on activities of daily living. The overall score and most of the items displayed good reproducibility and sensitivity to change.

Automated summary

The study assessed the test-retest reliability, sensitivity to change, and criterion validity of the Functional Evaluation in Thoracic Outlet Syndrome self-questionnaire. Results showed that the questionnaire had good reliability and sensitivity to change, making it a quick, simple tool for evaluating the impact of thoracic outlet syndrome on daily activities.