BACKGROUND: The use of outcome assessment scales in scientific studies is necessary so that different treatment forms can be compared among individuals with the same diagnosis. This study targeted the translation, cultural adaptation and validation of AOFAS’ Ankle-Hindfoot scale into Portuguese language. METHODS: The scale was applied to 50 patients with ankle-hindfoot joint conditions, twice by the interviewer # 1 and once by the interviewer # 2. The patients were also assessed by using the SF-36 quality-of-life generic questionnaire and the visual analogue scale (VAS). RESULTS: The Pearson Correlation Coefficient (PCC) and the Intra-Class Correlation Coefficient (ICC) were 0.93 (p<0.001) and 0.96, respectively, for intra-observer reliability and 0.92 (p<0.001) and 0.95, respectively, for inter-observer reliability. The functional capacity and pain components (SF-36) presented the highest correlations (0.67 and 0.64; p<0.001, respectively) at the AOFAS’ Ankle-hindfoot scale. The PCC between VAS and AOFAS Ankle-Hindfoot scale was inversely proportional (- 0,68; p<0,001). CONCLUSIONS: We conclude that the version of AOFAS Ankle-Hindfoot scale for the Portuguese Language was successfully translated and cultural adapted for application to Brazilian patients, with satisfactory reliability and construct validity.
Questionnaires; Translations; Ankle injuries
