ICF components of outcome measures for mallet finger: A systematic review.

STUDY DESIGN: Systematic review.

INTRODUCTION/PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to systematically review outcome measures used for the assessment of the conservative management of mallet finger to determine if they characterize the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health components of activity, participation, environmental factors, or quality of life.

METHODS/RESULTS: Five studies published within the last 10 years were included in the systematic review. A majority, 19 of the outcomes used by the authors, fell within the body functions and structures category. Six were related to activity, and 1 was related to participation. One was linked to environmental factors. Five were found to be not definable and related to quality of life.

DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION: This systematic review suggests that many outcome measures focus on body structures and functions in the current research on the conservative treatment of mallet finger injuries.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 2a.