gms | German Medical Science

Background: Work capacity is one predictor of return to work in trauma patients. In addition to orthopaedic limitations, comorbidity might also influence work capacity. Limited data on the influence of comorbidity on functional capacity in trauma patients are available [1].

Aim: We aimed to evaluate the influence of comorbidity on work capacity in trauma patients referred to FCE testing.

Method: Retrospective cohort analysis of in-patient trauma patients.

Work capacity was evaluated using the Workwell® FCE testing procedure [2] and displayed as DOT category (i.e. 1=seated, 2=light, 3=middle, 4= heavy, 5=very heavy work). Comorbidity was assessed using the Modified CIRS [3].

Results/findings: In the year 2016, 161 trauma patients were referred for FCE testing (mean age: 41,9±11,1 years, 143 male, mean duration after trauma: 13,3 (±21,4) months).

The mean DOT category for the observed work capacity was 3,4 (±0,5). The mean Modified CIRS score was 5,4 (±3,1) points (range: 1–17 points),

The descriptive statistics revealed the absence of data for DOT category 1 (=seated) and under-representation of subjects (n=2) in DOT category 5 (=very heavy). It further revealed an under-representation of patients with moderate to high comorbidity levels, thus not allowing for further quantitative statistical data analysis.

Discussion and conclusions: Due to an uneven data-distribution of work capacity and comorbidity application of the intended regression model was not suitable. This might, at least in part, be explained by the definition of a “medically stable condition” as one major inclusion criterion for FCE testing. Further studies with larger populations and/or populations with a broader level of work capacity and comorbidity might help to answer the research question.