Psychometric properties of Brachial Plexus outcome measure: COSMIN-based systematic review.

Abstract

Children with incomplete recovery from Brachial Plexus Birth Injury (BPBI) experience varying degrees of upper limb impairment, and 20-30% require interventions to optimize function. A psychometrically validated measure of upper limb activity capacity is essential to guide shared clinical decisions for surgical and rehabilitation interventions. Following the Joanna Briggs Institute Manual for Evidence Synthesis, this systematic review included studies on the measurement properties of the Brachial Plexus Outcome Measure (BPOM) - Activity Scale, a performance-based outcome measure of upper limb activity capacity in children with BPBI. Three databases were searched from inception to October 2023. Methodological quality was assessed and summarized using the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health status Measurement INstruments (COSMIN)'s Risk of Bias checklist. Of 11 screened, 6 studies were included. The quality of measurement property studies was very good (27%, <i>n</i> = 4), adequate (7%, <i>n</i> = 1), doubtful (20%, <i>n</i> = 3) and inadequate (47%, <i>n</i> = 7). The BPOM - Activity Scale demonstrated strong internal consistency, with good reliability and construct validity. Additional evidence on its content validity and reliability is necessary. Overall, the BPOM - Activity Scale has the potential to provide evidence-based information to support the rehabilitation of children with BPBI.