Randomized controlled trials and alternative study designs in surgical oncology

Area of Science:

• Surgical Oncology
• Cancer Research
• Clinical Trials

Background:

• Surgery is crucial for treating solid cancers and integrated into multimodal cancer care.
• Effective surgical decision-making relies on robust, valid, and applicable clinical data.
• Current data sources include observations, registries, and clinical trials.

Purpose of the Study:

• To enhance research literacy among surgical candidates and practicing surgical oncologists.
• To provide principles and concepts for understanding and contributing to cancer trials.
• To support the development of surgeon-led cancer research initiatives.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing principles and emerging concepts in surgical oncology research.
• Focus on enhancing the ability of surgeons to read, understand, and plan clinical trials.
• Integration of research literacy into the European Society of Surgical Oncology (ESSO) core curriculum.

Main Results:

• A framework of principles and concepts for surgical oncologists is presented.
• Emphasis on improving the quality and applicability of data used in surgical decision-making.
• Increased focus on surgeon-led initiatives in cancer research.

Conclusions:

• Enhanced research literacy is essential for advancing surgical oncology.
• Surgeons play a vital role in planning and conducting high-quality cancer trials.
• This work supports the development of evidence-based practices in surgical cancer care.