Patient-reported outcome measures in cerebrovascular neurosurgery

OBJECTIVE The object of this study was to describe the use of patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) in cerebrovascular neurosurgery and to outline a framework for incorporating them into future cerebrovascular research. METHODS Following the standardized PRISMA guidelines, the authors performed a search of the PubMed and Embase databases in February 2023 using filters to investigate six specific cerebrovascular pathologies/procedures: subhematoma, and carotid artery stenosis. PROMs in the identified articles were distinguished and classified as generic, symptom specific, or disease specific. RESULTS A total of 259 studies including 51 PROMs were eligible for inclusion in the review. Most of the PROMs were generic or symptom specific. Only 5 PROMs were disease specific, and all of these pertained to stroke or SAH. CONCLUSIONS There are only a limited number of disease-specific PROMs available for cerebrovascular pathologies and outcomes. Further validation of existing measures in independent cohorts, expanded incorporation of disease-specific PROMs in prospective trials, and the development of new PROMs specific to cerebrovascular conditions are critical to a better understanding of the impact of cerebrovascular diseases and novel therapies on patient lives.