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Moving forward through consensus: protocol for a modified Delphi approach to determine the top research priorities in
Patricia Schneider1, Nathan Evaniew2, Juan Sebastian Rendon2
1Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
Introduction:
Orthopaedic oncology researchers face several obstacles in the design and execution of randomised controlled trials, including finite fiscal resources to support the rising costs of clinical research and insufficient patient volume at individual sites. As a result, high-quality research to guide clinical practice has lagged behind other surgical subspecialties. A focused approach is imperative to design a research programme that is economical, streamlined and addresses clinically relevant endpoints. The primary objective of this study will be to use a consensus-based approach to identify research priorities for international clinical trials in orthopaedic oncology.
Methods And Analysis:
We will conduct a 3-phase modified Delphi method consisting of 2 sequential rounds of anonymous web-based questionnaires (phases I and II), and an in-person consensus meeting (phase III). Participants will suggest research questions that they believe are of particular importance to the field (phase I), and individually rate each proposed question on 5 criteria (phase II). Research questions that meet predetermined consensus thresholds will be brought forward to the consensus meeting (phase III) for discussion by an expert panel. Following these discussions, the expert panel will be asked to assign scores for each research question, and research questions meeting predetermined criteria will be brought forward for final ranking. The expert panel will then be asked to rank the top 3 research questions, and these 3 research questions will be distributed to the initial group of participants for validation.
Ethics And Dissemination:
An ethics application is currently under review with the Hamilton Integrated Research Ethics Board in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. The results of this initiative will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.
Insights
Orthopaedic oncology researchers are identifying key priorities for international clinical trials. This consensus-based approach aims to streamline research and address critical clinical questions in the field.
Area of Science:
- Orthopaedic Oncology
- Clinical Trials
- Research Prioritization
Background:
- Orthopaedic oncology clinical trials face challenges like limited funding and patient numbers.
- This hinders the development of high-quality research to guide clinical practice.
- A focused, economical, and streamlined research approach is needed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify research priorities for international clinical trials in orthopaedic oncology.
- To establish a consensus on the most critical research questions.
- To guide future research endeavors in the field.
Main Methods:
- A 3-phase modified Delphi method will be employed.
- Includes two rounds of anonymous web-based questionnaires and an in-person consensus meeting.
- Expert panel discussions and validation by initial participants will finalize priorities.
Main Results:
- This study will yield a ranked list of top research priorities for orthopaedic oncology.
- Consensus will be reached on clinically relevant and feasible trial endpoints.
- The findings will inform the design of future international collaborative studies.
Conclusions:
- This consensus-driven initiative will establish clear research priorities.
- It aims to overcome obstacles in orthopaedic oncology clinical trials.
- The identified priorities will facilitate more effective and impactful research.
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