A Comparative Look at Patient-Reported Outcome Measures and Case Studies in Medical Research

Abstract

This research-methods case study shares some insights and reflections on performing research on rare medical conditions that have only been minimally studied in the past. There was a large gap in the literature for this subset of patient with rare groin injuries, making treatment decisions difficult for both the patient and the physician. Patient-reported outcome measures are rapidly expanding as a tool to measure treatment effectiveness. We focus particularly on the value of using standardized measures pre- and postoperatively as an objective measure of a surgical techniques efficacy. We discuss the many things to consider when using patient-reported outcomes, as well as how to develop a prospective research study with a unique patient population. Patient-reported outcomes helped us to effectively track patients beyond their typical follow-up utilizing objective tools, as well as objectively compare outcome tools to other patients having undergone the same treatment. Patient-reported outcomes can be utilized on small and large sample sizes to gain real insight on patient outcome and experience.