Functional outcome from traumatic brain injury: unidimensional and multidimensional?

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Study compares multidimentional and unidimensional measures of functional outcome as a result of brain injury. Functional outcome can be defined on a number of parameters. This study looks at the unidemensional models of GOS and DRS and the multidimensional mode CHART, the Craig Handicap Assessment and Reporting Technique. Patients suffering from traumatic brain injury (n=67) were assessed with CHART, GOS, and DRS scales. The outcomes targeted were self-care independence, travel, employment, and friendship. The results support the use of the multidimensional model of functional outcome which suggests multiple dimensions of outcome. The DRS and GOS models had strong associations only with self-care independence and travel and were weak on employment and friendship. CHART profiles tend to identify differences in quality of life. The WHO definitions between disability and handicap are reflected in this scale. Degree of disability does not directly cause an individual's degree of handicap. Both reconfirm the value of social support to brain injured patients in functional outcome.

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