Determinants of Patient Satisfaction After Orthopedic Interventions to the Hand: A Review of the Literature

Treatment effectiveness is increasingly evaluated from the patients' perspective. However, the interpretation of satisfaction is complex because the patient's perception of a satisfactory outcome is influenced by numerous factors. The objective of this study was to identify which factors are associated with patient satisfaction after orthopedic interventions to the hand. A literature review was conducted, including studies on determinants of satisfaction with treatment outcome or unspecified overall satisfaction of patients with hand problems. The results indicate that patient satisfaction is determined by multiple factors. There is moderate evidence that pain/symptoms, activities of daily living/function, aesthetics, and embodiment influence patient satisfaction. Furthermore, data indicate a correlation of strength, range of motion, fulfillment of expectations, deformity, workers' compensation, and length of follow-up with satisfaction. Knowledge about these determinants may lead to a more detailed decision-making process, thus contributing to improved treatment outcomes and cost-effectiveness. Level of Evidence: V. J HAND THER. 2011;24:303-12.