Development of ASMBS research agenda for bariatric surgery using the Delphi methodology

Area of Science:

• Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery
• Surgical Research Prioritization

Background:

• Despite increased bariatric surgery publications, research lacks coordination and focus.
• Numerous critical questions in bariatric surgery remain unanswered.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a comprehensive research agenda for the field of bariatric surgery.
• To guide future research efforts and funding allocations.

Main Methods:

• A modified Delphi methodology involving a 3-round national survey of American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) members.
• Expert panel collation and rating of submitted research questions using a 5-point Likert scale.

Main Results:

• 292 initial research questions were refined to 59 unique questions.
• Top-ranked questions focused on mechanisms of weight loss and diabetes resolution, causes of weight recidivism, and predictors of success.
• Mean rating for the top 40 questions was 3.46.

Conclusions:

• A prioritized research agenda for bariatric surgery was successfully developed.
• This agenda will help focus research and funding on critical areas.
• It will also aid in evaluating the merit and relevance of scientific contributions.