'Big data' reporting guidelines: how to answer big questions, yet avoid big problems

The extent and depth of routine health care data are growing at an ever-increasing rate, forming huge repositories of information. These repositories can answer a vast array of questions. However, an understanding of the purpose of the dataset used and the quality of the data collected are paramount to determine the reliability of the result obtained. This Editorial describes the importance of adherence to sound methodological principles in the reporting and publication of research using 'big' data, with a suggested reporting framework for future Bone & Joint Journal submissions.