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Quotation errors related to the Proximal Fracture of the Humerus Evaluation by Randomization (ProFHER) study
Rahul Bagga1, Peter Cay1, David Ricketts1
1Department of Trauma and Orthopaedics, Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals, Brighton, UK.
Shoulder & Elbow
|November 22, 2021
Summary
Quotations of the Proximal Fracture of the Humerus Evaluation by Randomization (ProFHER) study in published literature contain significant inaccuracies. Researchers should exercise caution to prevent the spread of misquoted data.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic surgery
- Medical research methodology
Background:
- The Proximal Fracture of the Humerus Evaluation by Randomization (ProFHER) study is a key reference in orthopedic literature.
- Accurate representation of study findings is crucial for scientific integrity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the fidelity of citations referencing the ProFHER study in published scientific articles.
- To identify and categorize errors in the quotation of ProFHER study results.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search identified articles citing ProFHER between March 2015 and November 2019.
- Two independent reviewers assessed full-text articles for quotation accuracy using a validated framework.
- Interobserver reliability was quantified using the kappa coefficient.
Main Results:
- Out of 260 ProFHER quotations across 138 articles, 35 (13%) contained errors.
- Major errors (29%) included unsubstantiated or contradictory findings, while minor errors (71%) involved oversimplification or numerical mistakes.
- Substantial agreement was observed between reviewers in error classification.
Conclusions:
- Significant inaccuracies exist in the published quotations of the ProFHER study.
- Increased vigilance is necessary when citing and reviewing literature to ensure accurate data perpetuation.
