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Spin in the Abstracts of Randomized Controlled Trials in Operative Dentistry: A Cross-sectional Analysis
1Xiaolin Fang, BDS, MSc, Hubei-MOST KLOS & KLOBM, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Department of Cariology and Endodontics, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
Operative Dentistry
|July 1, 2022
Summary
Spin, or biased reporting, is prevalent in operative dentistry randomized controlled trials (RCTs) abstracts. Over 75% of recent RCT abstracts exhibited spin, particularly in conclusions, highlighting a need for improved reporting standards in dental research.
Area of Science:
- Dental Research
- Evidence-Based Dentistry
- Clinical Trial Reporting
Background:
- Spin, the selective presentation of results, can distort the interpretation of clinical trial findings.
- Assessing spin in scientific literature is crucial for maintaining the integrity of evidence-based practice.
- Operative dentistry research relies on accurate reporting of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to guide clinical decisions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the prevalence and characteristics of spin in recently published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) abstracts within operative dentistry.
- To identify factors associated with the presence of spin in the results and conclusions sections of these abstracts.
Main Methods:
- A systematic search of the PubMed database identified parallel-group RCTs in operative dentistry published between 2015 and 2019.
- Two independent reviewers assessed abstracts for the presence and types of spin.
- Multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to determine factors linked to spin.
Main Results:
- Out of 77 included RCT abstracts, 58 (75.3%) demonstrated at least one form of spin.
- Spin was detected in the results section of 41.6% and the conclusions section of 58.4% of abstracts.
- Funding source was associated with spin in results (OR=8.10), and number of treatment arms with spin in conclusions (OR=5.66).
Conclusions:
- The rate of spin in operative dentistry RCT abstracts is notably high.
- Spin is frequently observed in the conclusions of abstracts, potentially misrepresenting study outcomes.
- Further attention to transparent reporting is warranted to mitigate spin in dental research abstracts.
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