Outcome Measures in Limb Lengthening and Deformity Correction

The measures used to assess the impact of treatment on a patient are called outcome measures. The most commonly measured outcomes in healthcare include function, pain, and health-related quality of life (HRQL). When reported directly by a patient without any influence from anyone else, these outcomes are called patient-reported outcomes (PROs). Therefore, the instruments used to measure PROs are called patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). Outcome assessment in lower limb deformities has been complicated due to the lack of a universally accepted classification system for assessing lower limb deformities. However, the classification system developed by the Limb Lengthening and Reconstruction Society (LLRS-AIM classification) was introduced to address this deficiency. The field of limb lengthening and deformity correction has seen some progress in the use and development of new measures specific to limb lengthening and deformity correction both in adults and pediatrics. This chapter provides an overview of recent developments in outcome assessment as well as guidance and resources to select and implement PROMs for use in clinical practice and research.