Computer adaptive test approach to the assessment of children and youth with brachial plexus birth palsy.

This study examined the psychometric properties of item pools relevant to upper-extremity function and activity performance and evaluated simulated 5-, 10-, and 15-item computer adaptive tests (CATs). In a multicenter, cross-sectional study of 200 children and youth with brachial plexus birth palsy (BPBP), parents responded to upper-extremity (n = 52) and activity (n = 34) items using a 5-point response scale. We used confirmatory and exploratory factor analysis, ordinal logistic regression, item maps, and standard errors to evaluate the psychometric properties of the item banks.

Rupture Following Biceps-to-Triceps Tendon Transfer in Adolescents and Young Adults With Spinal Cord Injury:: An Analysis of Potential Causes.

Background: Tendon transfer surgery can restore elbow extension in approximately 70% of persons with tetraplegia and often results in antigravity elbow extension strength. However, we have noted an almost 15% rupture/attenuation rate.

Objective: This investigation was conducted to analyze potential causes in adolescents/young adults with spinal cord injury (SCI) who experienced tendon rupture or attenuation after biceps-to-triceps transfer.

Evaluation of the box and blocks test, stereognosis and item banks of activity and upper extremity function in youths with brachial plexus birth palsy.

Background: One of the greatest limitations to measuring outcomes in pediatric orthopaedics is the lack of effective instruments. Computer adaptive testing, which uses large item banks, select only items that are relevant to a child's function based on a previous response and filters items that are too easy or too hard or simply not relevant to the child. In this way, computer adaptive testing provides for a meaningful, efficient, and precise method to evaluate patient-reported outcomes.

Perceptions of self-image and physical appearance: conversations with typically developing youth and youth with idiopathic scoliosis.

Purpose: To report how youths, both with and without idiopathic scoliosis (IS), respond to questions about their self-image and perceptions of body shape. An additional purpose is to describe themes that emerged as important to youths with IS to better understand scoliosis from their perspective.

Methods: Descriptive qualitative and quantitative methods were utilized.

Cognitive testing of the spinal appearance questionnaire with typically developing youth and youth with idiopathic scoliosis.

Background: The Spinal Appearance Questionnaire (SAQ) underwent initial psychometric studies, which suggested good reliability and discriminative ability. Although the SAQ is used as a self report of appearance, our center was concerned about its use with youth owing to complex words and vague questions. We conducted this cross-sectional study to evaluate the readability, comprehension, and interpretation of items on the SAQ.

Outcomes of urinary diversion in children with spinal cord injuries.

Purpose: To gain a better understanding of the outcomes of the Mitrofanoff procedure for urinary diversion in children with spinal cord injury (SCI).

Design: Descriptive retrospective.

Participants/methods: Individuals 6 to 27 years of age with SCI with at least 1 year follow-up after the Mitrofanoff procedure.

Key elements of bladder and Bowel management for children with spinal cord injuries.

Bladder and bowel management can be one of the most challenging aspects of daily life after spinal cord injury (SCI). Children are especially unique due to their ever-changing growth and developmental considerations. Continence is crucial for children who are still developing self-confidence and self-esteem.

Bladder and bowel management for the child with spinal cord dysfunction.

Bladder and bowel management can be a challenge to adults and children with spinal cord dysfunction. Children are especially challenging due to their everchanging growth and developmental considerations. Bladder/bowel incontinence can bring about teasing from a child's peers and lead to social isolation.