Validity and responsiveness of the patient evaluation measure as an outcome measure for carpal tunnel syndrome

The aim of this study was to assess the validity of the Patient Evaluation Measure questionnaire (PEM) as an outcome measure in carpal tunnel syndrome. The PEM was compared to the DASH questionnaire and to objective measurements of hand function. We also compared its responsiveness to changes following carpal tunnel release with that of the DASH score. Twenty-four patients completed the PEM and DASH questionnaires before and 3 months after open carpal tunnel release. Grip strength, static two-point discrimination and the nine-hole peg test were measured. There was a significant correlation between individual items of the PEM and the objective measures. There was also strong correlation between PEM and DASH scores. The PEM showed a greater responsiveness to change (effect size 0.97) than the DASH score (effect size 0.49). The PEM correlates well with objective measures of hand function and the DASH score when used in carpal tunnel syndrome. It is more responsive to change than the DASH score. It is very simple to complete and score and is an appropriate and practical outcome measure in carpal tunnel syndrome.