Study Selection and Data Extraction

Two reviewers (TVA, FTB) independently screened titles and abstracts using Covidence, a Cochrane platform to support systematic reviews.²⁵ Full-text screening was performed to determine study eligibility. A third reviewer (EVH) resolved discrepancies. The references of included studies and previous reviews were screened to identify additional studies for inclusion.

Studies were included if their full text was available in English or Dutch and if they reported using a condition-specific PROM for patients above 18 years and with chronic wounds. Studies using generic PROMs alone and not a study but a comment, guideline, or editorial letter were excluded. The development articles of the PROMs used in the identified studies were searched for analysis. The quality of each PROM’s development was appraised using the COSMIN (Consensus-based Standards for the Selection of Health Measurement Instruments) guidelines.^26–28 Two primary reviewers (TVA, FTB) worked independently to rate the quality of each PROM, and regular consensus meetings were held to review each individual’s ratings and come to a consensus. A third reviewer (EVH) resolved any discrepancies if consensus was not established.