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Future of outcomes research in plastic surgery
1Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery and Surgical Oncology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Toni.zhong@uhn.ca
Clinics in Plastic Surgery
|March 20, 2013
Summary
This article outlines essential elements for plastic surgery outcomes research, emphasizing patient-reported outcomes and cost-effectiveness studies. Future directions include robust trials and dedicated research groups to advance the field.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Health Services Research
Background:
- Outcomes research is crucial for advancing plastic surgery.
- Standardized methodologies are needed to evaluate surgical effectiveness and patient satisfaction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of current and future directions in plastic surgery outcomes research.
- To highlight key components and methodologies essential for robust outcomes assessment.
Main Methods:
- Discussion of essential components: randomized controlled trials, observational study design, patient-reported outcome tools, qualitative methodology, and health-services/cost-effectiveness studies.
- Summary of population-based studies in breast reconstruction, including utilization rates.
- Addressing the need for dedicated outcomes research groups within professional organizations.
Main Results:
- Identifies critical areas for improving outcomes research in plastic surgery.
- Highlights the current utilization of breast reconstruction services.
- Emphasizes the necessity of validated patient-reported outcome measures.
Conclusions:
- Plastic surgery outcomes research requires a multi-faceted approach, integrating various methodologies.
- The development of patient-reported outcome tools and health-services research is paramount.
- Establishing dedicated research groups is vital for the future of the field.
