The clinical trials group turns 20: a clinician's perspective

Area of Science:

• Critical Care Medicine
• Clinical Trials Research
• Health Services Research

Background:

• The Australian and New Zealand Intensive Care Society Clinical Trials Group (ANZICS CTG) was established to foster collaborative clinical research in intensive care.
• Over its first two decades, the ANZICS CTG has played a pivotal role in shaping evidence-based practice within intensive care units.
• Intensive care medicine has seen substantial advancements, partly driven by the research initiatives of groups like the ANZICS CTG.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a clinician's perspective on the inaugural 20 years of the ANZICS CTG.
• To evaluate the influence of the ANZICS CTG and its key research trials on contemporary intensive care clinical practice.
• To underscore the significance of collaborative clinical trials in advancing critical care.

Main Methods:

• This manuscript presents a retrospective viewpoint from a clinician involved in the ANZICS CTG.
• It involves a narrative review of the group's history and its major contributions.
• Emphasis is placed on the impact of landmark published research trials.

Main Results:

• The ANZICS CTG has demonstrably influenced clinical practice through high-impact research.
• Several major trials coordinated by the group have led to significant changes in patient management protocols.
• The collaborative model has proven effective in conducting large-scale, multicenter critical care studies.

Conclusions:

• The ANZICS CTG has been instrumental in advancing intensive care medicine through rigorous clinical trials.
• The group's work has translated into improved patient outcomes and optimized clinical practice.
• Continued support for such collaborative research initiatives is crucial for future progress in critical care.