Accuracy of the Upper Limb Prediction Algorithm PREP2 Applied 2 Weeks Poststroke: A Prospective Longitudinal Study

Background The Predict Recovery Potential algorithm (PREP2) was developed to predict upper limb (UL) function early after stroke. However, assessment in the acute phase is not always possible. Objective To assess the prognostic accuracy of the PREP2 when applied in a subacute neurorehabilitation setting. Methods This prospective longitudinal study included patients >= 18 years old with UL impairment following stroke. Patients were assessed in accordance with the PREP2 approach. However, 2 main components, the shoulder abduction finger extension (SAFE) score and motor-evoked potentials (MEPs) were obtained 2 weeks poststroke. UL function at 3 months was predicted in 1 of 4 categories and compared with the actual outcome at 3 months as assessed by the Action Research Arm Test. The prediction accuracy of the PREP2 was quantified using the correct classification rate (CCR). Results Ninety-one patients were included. Overall CCR of the PREP2 was 60% (95% CI 50%-71%). Within the 4 categories, CCR ranged from the lowest value at 33% (95% CI 4%-85%) for the category Limited to the highest value at 78% (95% CI 43%-95%) for the category Poor. In the present study, the overall CCR was significantly lower (P < .001) than the 75% reported by the PREP2 developers. Conclusions The low overall CCR makes PREP2 obtained 2 weeks poststroke unsuited for clinical implementation. However, PREP2 may be used to predict either excellent UL function in already well-recovered patients or poor UL function in patients with persistent severe UL paresis.

Automated summary

The study found that the prognostic accuracy of the PREP2 algorithm in predicting upper limb function 3 months after stroke in a subacute neurorehabilitation setting was lower, with an overall correct classification rate of 60%. Although PREP2 showed good predictive accuracy in some categories, the overall rate was significantly lower than the 75% reported by the developers.