STARD Adherence in an Interventional Radiology Guideline for Diagnostic Arteriography

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Radiology
• Health Sciences

Background:

• Diagnostic accuracy studies (DAS) are crucial for evaluating medical tests.
• The Standards for Reporting of Diagnostic Accuracy (STARD) statement aims to improve the quality and transparency of DAS reporting.
• The Quality Improvement Guidelines for Diagnostic Arteriography provide specific recommendations for reporting in this field.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the reporting quality of diagnostic accuracy studies (DAS) cited within the Quality Improvement Guidelines for Diagnostic Arteriography.
• To assess the adherence of these studies to the Standards for Reporting of Diagnostic Accuracy (STARD) statement.
• To identify specific areas of reporting deficiency in diagnostic arteriography studies.

Main Methods:

• Collected citations from the Society of Interventional Radiology's Quality Improvement Guidelines for Diagnostic Arteriography.
• Utilized the 34-item STARD checklist to assess reporting completeness in 26 included diagnostic accuracy studies.
• Two authors independently and blindly documented reported STARD items, resolving discrepancies through a consensus meeting.

Main Results:

• The 26 included diagnostic accuracy studies reported a mean of 17.8 STARD items (SD ± 3.1), with a median adherence of 18 items.
• Studies published after the STARD 2003 update showed a slightly higher mean adherence (18.1 items) compared to those published before (17.4 items).
• Significant variability in adherence was observed, with 14 STARD items reported in < 25% of studies and 13 items reported in > 75%.

Conclusions:

• Diagnostic accuracy studies referenced by arteriography guidelines exhibit a dichotomous adherence pattern to the STARD statement.
• Specific reporting areas demonstrate significant deficiencies, highlighting the need for focused improvement.
• Enhancing transparency and completeness in reporting is essential for future diagnostic accuracy studies in this field.