The Quebec classification and a new Swedish classification for whiplash-associated disorders in relation to life satisfaction in patients at high risk of chronic functional impairment and disability.
Unlike the Quebec classification system, which is based primarily on pathoanatomy, a new Swedish classification system is based on the site of functional impairment and disability. A prospective study was performed on 85 patients with whiplash-associated disorders grade II according to the Quebec classification. The patients were examined 3-36 months following trauma. A team of professionals with different training performed the diagnostic procedure. An independent assessor classified these patients according to a Swedish classification system. All patients answered questionnaire regarding life satisfaction. Logistic regression demonstrated significant differences in 6 of 10 specific dimensions of life satisfaction between the classification categories C and D (presence of arm symptoms) in a Swedish classification. Patients with whiplash-associated disorders grade II and neuropsychological symptoms seem to have a worse prognosis for spontaneous recovery than those without. A new Swedish classification system seems to be an important complement to the Quebec classification.
Tenenbaum
Artur
A
Mösseberg Rehabilitation Center, Mösseberg Kurort, Falköping, Sweden. artur.tenenbaum@mosseberg.se
Rivano-Fischer
Marcelo
M
Tjell
Carsten
C
Edblom
Micael
M
Sunnerhagen
Katharina Stibrant
KS
D000041:Absenteeism; D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002908:Chronic Disease; D004185:Disability Evaluation; D006233:Persons with Disabilities / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D016015:Logistic Models; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D020380:Needs Assessment; D010549:Personal Satisfaction; D011379:Prognosis; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011788:Quality of Life; D011792:Quebec; D020127:Recovery of Function; D012307:Risk Factors; D013548:Sweden; D014911:Whiplash Injuries / Q000145:classification* / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000523:psychology* / Q000534:rehabilitation