The effect of a modified tenodesis wrist-hand orthosis on hand function in patients with tetraplegia

Canadian Prosthetics & Orthotics Journal, 2024 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.33137/cpoj.v7i1.42879 · Published: October 28, 2024

Spinal Cord Injury Assistive Technology Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

The study aimed to determine how this alteration affects manual ability among people suffering from SCI. The study findings indicate that the modified tenodesis WHO is an effective and satisfactory therapeutic device for improving hand function in patients with tetraplegia. Twenty-two individuals with a minimum wrist extensor power of grade 3/5 were included in the study. These patients were provided with the modified tenodesis WHO and underwent daily training sessions for a period of 2 weeks.

Study Duration

12 weeks

Participants

22 individuals with tetraplegia

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
The analysis of the DHI scores indicated a significant enhancement in functional abilities at both 6-week and 12-week follow-ups compared to the baseline assessment.
2
Notably, the most substantial progress at 6 weeks follow-up was observed in tasks such as buttoning a shirt, while significant improvement at the 12-week mark was noted in activities like turning a key in a lock.
3
Patients expressed the highest satisfaction levels with the courteous demeanor of the staff, prompt scheduling of appointments, and accurate fitting of the orthosis.

Research Summary

The results of this prospective observational study demonstrated significant improvements in hand function among patients with SCI who utilized the modified tenodesis WHO. The effectiveness of this modified tenodesis WHO in enhancing hand function is demonstrated by a significant improvement in the DHI scores after 6 and 12 weeks compared to baseline. Assessment using the OPUS satisfaction with device and services in our study revealed that participants expressed high satisfaction levels with the courteous behavior of staff, prompt appointment scheduling, and appropriate fit of the orthosis.

Practical Implications

Clinical Implications

The study results hold significant clinical implications for patients with SCI undergoing hand function rehabilitation, potentially enhancing their participation in both personal and professional activities.

Future Research

Future research should investigate the long-term effects of the modified tenodesis WHO on hand function and explore its applicability across various levels and severities of SCI.

Qualitative Measures

Incorporating qualitative measures to capture participants’ perceptions and experiences with the WHO could provide valuable insights into its acceptability and usability.

Study Limitations

1
The lack of a control group precludes definitive causal conclusions regarding the efficacy of this wrist hand orthosis.
2
The relatively short intervention period may have influenced the magnitude of the observed improvements.
3
The omission of the digits 4 and 5 from the modified WHO may have contributed to limitations in spherical and cylindrical grasp

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