Comparison of the subjective elbow value and the Mayo elbow performance score.

BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to evaluate the subjective elbow value (SEV) and compare it with the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS). The SEV is defined as the patient's subjective estimation of the elbow as a percentage of a normal elbow, which would correspond to 100%. METHODS The MEPS and the SEV were prospectively assessed in all patients treated for any elbow pathology. Two groups in this consecutive series were analyzed: (1) all first consultations (n = 241) and (2) all patients who had a preoperative consultation, a surgical procedure, and a postoperative consultation (n = 41). Statistical analysis included calculation of correlation and responsiveness of the scores. RESULTS For the first consultations, the mean MEPS and SEV were 65 points and 60%, respectively. Both scores correlated (r = 0.671). The strongest correlation was found for female patients (r = 0.733) and for the diagnosis group of joint damage (r = 0.747). The standardized response means were 1.26 for the MEPS and 1.01 for the SEV, indicating that both scores detected an obvious change in the outcome. CONCLUSIONS The SEV is an easily administered, responsive, valid tool to assess the condition of the elbow. It should be considered an adjunct to currently used scores because it only detects the subjective condition of the elbow.