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Published on: August 24, 2018
Methodological guide to adopting new aesthetic surgical innovations
Achilleas Thoma1, Manraj Nirmal Kaur1, Chris J Hong1
1Dr Thoma is a Clinical Professor, Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, McMaster University; Associate Member, Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, McMaster University; and Director, Surgical Outcomes Research Center, Department of Surgery, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. Ms. Kaur is a PhD Student, School of Rehabilitation Sciences; Research Coordinator, Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery; and Research Coordinator, Surgical Outcomes Research Center, Department of Surgery, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. Mr. Hong is an MD Candidate, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Dr Li is a Resident, Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
Abstract:
Aesthetic surgery is known for its prolific introduction of new techniques, devices, and products. The implementation of any aesthetic innovation, however, may inadvertently expose patients to potential complications and adverse events. How do we decide whether a new technique or technology is superior-in both safety and effectiveness-compared with prevailing interventions? In this paper, we present some basic steps anchored in evidence-based surgery that aesthetic surgeons need to pursue in the adoption of a new technique, technology, or product. These steps include: (1) gaining familiarity with and understanding the levels of evidence; (2) performing an effective literature search; (3) formulating a critical appraisal of an article; (4) making the decision to adopt or reject; (5) recognizing the need for continued assessment; (6) acknowledging the need for education and credentialing; and (7) translation of the gathered knowledge. We hope that this paper will foster critical thinking and reduce the reliance on "photographic evidence" in aesthetic surgery literature.
