22 Chapter 2 ABSTRACT Objectives: To develop a core outcome set for Achilles tendinopathy (COS-AT) for use in clinical trials. Methods: We performed a five-step process including: (I) a systematic review on available outcome measurement instruments, (II) an online survey on truth and feasibility of the available measurement instruments, (III) an assessment of the methodological quality of the selected outcome measurement instruments, (IV) an online survey on the outcome measurement instruments as COS, and (V) a consensus in-person meeting. The OMERACT guidelines with 70% threshold for consensus were followed. Results: We identified 233 different outcome measurement instruments from 307 included studies; 177 were mapped within the ICON core domains. 31 participants (12 patients) completed the 1st online survey. 22/177 (12%) outcome measurement instruments were deemed truthful and feasible and their clinimetric properties were evaluated. 29 participants (12 patients) completed the 2nd online survey and three outcome measurement instruments were endorsed: the Victorian Institute of Sports AssessmentAchilles (VISA-A) questionnaire, the single-leg heel rise test, and evaluating pain after activity using a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS, 0-10). 12 participants (1 patient) attended the final consensus meeting, and 1 additional outcome measurement instrument was endorsed: evaluating pain on activity/loading using a VAS (0-10). Conclusion: It is strongly recommended that the identified COS-AT will be used in future clinical trials evaluating effectiveness of an intervention. This will facilitate pooling of data and progression of knowledge about Achilles tendinopathy. As COS-AT is implemented further evidence on clinimetric properties of included measures should lead to its review and refinement.
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