How to do clinical research in cranio-maxillo-facial surgery
Maurice Y Mommaerts1, Murray E Foster, Karsten K H Gundlach
1Division of Maxillo-Facial Surgery, AZ St. Jan, Bruges, Belgium.
Summary
This guide helps surgeons, particularly in maxillo-facial surgery, plan, conduct, and publish rigorous studies. It covers defining research questions, protocols, funding, study designs, statistics, and manuscript submission for journal publication.
Area of Science:
- Medical Research Methodology
- Surgical Research
- Maxillofacial Surgery
Background:
- Limited randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in surgical journals, especially maxillofacial surgery.
- Uncertainty exists regarding the optimal methodology for conducting surgical studies.
- This paper addresses the need for clear guidance on study design and execution in surgery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive guide for planning, conducting, and publishing high-quality research in surgery.
- To assist researchers in designing robust case-control studies and randomized controlled trials (RCTs).
- To support young clinicians in navigating the research process from conception to publication.
Main Methods:
- Defining a relevant clinical question and developing a detailed research protocol.
- Guidance on study implementation, including securing research funding.
- Explanation of various study designs, basic statistics, and results appraisal.
Main Results:
- The paper outlines a systematic approach to surgical research methodology.
- It details the essential steps for successful study execution and manuscript preparation.
- Provides advice on submitting research findings to leading specialty journals.
Conclusions:
- This paper serves as a practical guide for surgical trainees and researchers.
- It aims to improve the quality and quantity of published surgical research.
- Facilitates the successful publication of well-conducted studies in high-impact journals.
