Protocol for the development of a multidisciplinary clinical practice guideline for the care of patients with chronic...

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Clinical Guideline Development
• Evidence-Based Medicine

Background:

• Chronic subdural haematoma (cSDH) is a common neurosurgical condition, particularly affecting elderly individuals.
• Current care for cSDH patients is often fragmented and suboptimal, lacking a unified framework.
• Multidisciplinary guidelines have improved outcomes in other complex conditions, highlighting a need for cSDH.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline a protocol for developing the first comprehensive multidisciplinary guideline for cSDH.
• To cover the entire patient journey from diagnosis through long-term recovery.
• To establish a patient-centered approach to cSDH management.

Main Methods:

• A steering group with key stakeholders and professional organizations will guide the project.
• Patient and public involvement will be integrated throughout the development process.
• Multidisciplinary working groups will formulate research questions and evidence reviews using the GRADE framework.
• A modified Delphi process will be employed to build consensus on draft clinical recommendations.

Main Results:

• The study presents a protocol for guideline development, not final results.
• The methodology ensures a comprehensive and consensus-driven approach.
• The protocol is designed to address the need for standardized cSDH care.

Conclusions:

• A protocol for a multidisciplinary cSDH guideline has been developed.
• The guideline will be informed by cross-disciplinary working groups and consensus-building.
• This initiative aims to enhance the care and outcomes for patients with cSDH.