Validation of the Subjective Spine Value: A new single item score for the assessment of spine-specific function

Abstract

Background Spinal function can be assessed through different patient reported outcome measures (PROMs). Purpose: The aim of the present study was to evaluate a novel single-item score for the assessment of spinal function: The Subjective Spine Value (SSpV). It was hypothesized that the SSpV correlates with the established scores Oswestry disability index (ODI) and Core Outcome Measures Index (COMI). Methods Between 08/2020 and 11/2021 151 consecutive patients were prospectively enrolled and completed a questionnaire with the ODI, COMI as well as the SSpV. Patients were divided into 4 groups depending on their specific pathology (Group 1: Degenerative pathologies, Group 2: Tumor, Group 3: Inflammatory / Infection, Group 4: Trauma). Pearson correlation coefficient was used to evaluate correlation between the SSpV and the ODI and COMI separately. Floor and ceiling effects were evaluated. Results Overall, the SSpV correlated significantly with both ODI (p = < 0.001; r = − 0.640) and COMI (p = < 0.001; r = − 0.640). This was also observed across all investigated groups (range − 0.420–0.736). No relevant floor or ceiling effects were noticed. Conclusions The SSpV is a valid single-item score for the assessment of spinal function. The SSpV offers a useful tool to efficiently assess spinal function in a variety of spinal pathologies. Level of evidence I, prospective cohort study.