A commentary on the need for minimum information for studies evaluating biologics in plastic surgery

Area of Science:

• Regenerative Medicine
• Plastic Surgery
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Biologics like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are widely used in plastic surgery.
• Current literature lacks standardized reporting, hindering evidence synthesis and clinical application.
• Previous systematic reviews highlight significant heterogeneity in biologic preparation protocols.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address the lack of standardized reporting for PRP and MSC studies in plastic surgery.
• To propose the adoption of the Minimum Information for Studies Evaluating Biologics in Orthopaedics (MIBO) checklist.
• To advocate for mandatory MIBO checklist completion for publication in plastic surgery journals.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on biologic reporting standards in plastic surgery.
• Analysis of the MIBO guidelines developed for orthopedic surgery.
• Proposal for plastic surgery journals to mandate MIBO checklist completion for PRP and MSC studies.

Main Results:

• Significant heterogeneity exists in the reporting of PRP and MSC studies.
• Existing guidelines (e.g., MIBO in orthopedics) have shown poor voluntary adoption.
• Plastic surgery currently lacks specific reporting guidelines for PRP and MSCs.

Conclusions:

• Mandatory adherence to standardized reporting guidelines, such as MIBO, is crucial for plastic surgery.
• Standardized reporting will enable robust meta-analyses and identify optimal biologic protocols.
• Implementing these standards demonstrates a commitment to scientific rigor and enhances clinical translation.