Measuring outcomes in adult brachial plexus reconstruction.

The focus of this article is on evaluating the various outcome measures of surgical interventions for adult brachial plexus injuries. From a surgeon's perspective, the goals of surgery have largely focused on the return of motor function and restoration of protective sensation. From a patient's perspective, alleviation of pain, cosmesis, return to work, and emotional state are also important. The ideal outcome measure should be valid, reliable, responsive, unbiased, appropriate, and easy. The author outlines pitfalls and benefits of current outcome measures and offers thoughts on possible future measures.