Evaluation of shoulder disability questionnaires used for the assessment of shoulder disability after neck dissection for head and neck cancer.

BACKGROUND Several questionnaires have been used to evaluate shoulder disability after neck dissection. The purpose of this study was to review these measures and highlight their strengths and weaknesses. METHODS A literature review was performed to identify measures of shoulder disability after head and neck cancer surgery. These measures were evaluated in terms of their methods of development and assessment of their psychometric properties. RESULTS Seven questionnaires were identified. Several of the other questionnaires have been well developed but have not had their psychometric properties assessed in the head and neck cancer population. Each questionnaire has its strengths and weaknesses. CONCLUSION The strengths and weaknesses of the shoulder disability questionnaires should be considered when deciding which questionnaire to use. Efforts should be focused on using well-designed questionnaires that have been assessed in this patient population rather than developing or using other questionnaires.