From the Research
The PROMIS range for upper extremity function after wrist surgery typically falls between 30 and 60, with higher scores indicating better function, as supported by the most recent study 1. Most patients start with lower scores immediately after surgery (around 30-35) and gradually improve over the recovery period. By 3 months post-surgery, patients often reach scores of 40-45, and by 6-12 months, many patients achieve scores of 50-55, approaching population norms. However, this range can vary significantly based on the specific wrist procedure performed, pre-existing conditions, patient age, and rehabilitation adherence. More complex surgeries like wrist fusions or total wrist arthroplasties may result in lower initial scores and slower improvement trajectories compared to less invasive procedures like carpal tunnel release. The PROMIS upper extremity function score is valuable because it provides a standardized measure that helps surgeons track recovery progress, adjust rehabilitation protocols, and set realistic expectations for patients regarding their functional recovery timeline after wrist surgery, as noted in a study on the effectiveness of occupational therapy interventions 1. Key factors influencing the number of office visits after traumatic hand and wrist conditions include higher PROMIS Pain Interference scores and lower Physical Function scores, as found in a study on patient characteristics and treatment 2. Additionally, a study on the biopsychosocial model in pediatric hand surgery patients highlights the importance of considering pain interference and peer relationships in evaluating upper extremity function 3. Overall, the PROMIS upper extremity function score is a crucial tool in assessing and managing patient recovery after wrist surgery, and its interpretation should consider various factors, including the specific procedure, patient characteristics, and rehabilitation adherence, as supported by recent research 4, 1.