Citation

Rosberg HE, Carlsson KS, Dahlin LB. Scand. J. Plast. Reconstr. Surg. Hand Surg. 2005; 39(6): 360-369.

Affiliation

Department of Hand Surgery, Malmo University Hospital, Malmo.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2005, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/02844310500340046

PMID

16298809

Abstract

Patients with injured hands and forearms of varying severity [Hand Injury Severity Score (HISS)] were studied prospectively, including analysis of costs, hand/arm function (DASH), and health status (SF-36). Costs, duration of sick-leave, DASH-score (high score; impaired function) increased by severity of injury (higher HISS) and the greatest proportion of total costs resulted from lost production. Most employed patients returned to work within a year, but even minor injuries were expensive. HISS and costs of care during an emergency were significantly associated with duration of sick-leave, although HISS did not fully explain variation in costs and duration of sick-leave. DASH-score at one year was associated with variation in age, HISS, and residual health care costs. Results of DASH and subgroups for physical and bodily pain on SF-36 were consistent. Injuries to hand and forearm may generate high costs for society in terms of health care and long periods of sick-leave (lost production), but even minor injuries should be accounted for.