Implementation Science in Breast Reconstruction: A Guide to Closing the Research-to-practice Gap

Gaps between scientific discovery and its adoption into everyday clinical practice delay potential benefits for patients. The field of implementation science addresses these gaps by facilitating the spread of evidence-based practice into routine use. Distinct from quality improvement initiatives, which focus on enhancing processes within specific healthcare contexts, implementation science systematically studies the methods and strategies needed to promote the uptake, sustainability, and scale of interventions with proven effectiveness. The aim of this article was to introduce the core principles of implementation science, illustrate their application through examples in breast reconstruction, and draw insights from studies across other disciplines. Key steps in implementation research are discussed, including choosing an appropriate evidence-based practice, designing the study, performing a contextual analysis, selecting a tailored implementation strategy, and measuring implementation outcomes. By exploring these concepts, this work emphasizes the critical role of structured approaches in bridging research and practice, ultimately leading to lasting advancements in the quality of care delivery and improved patient outcomes.