[Clinimetry (clinical studies)--an evaluation]

Area of Science:

• Surgical research methodology
• Clinical trial design
• Healthcare quality improvement

Background:

• Global criticism of surgical research due to methodological flaws and limited trial types.
• German surgery has historically adopted a unique approach to clinical research.
• Need for robust and reliable clinical research in surgery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the distinct and successful methodology of German clinical research in surgery.
• To advocate for the continued adoption of this unique approach.
• To contrast German surgical research practices with those in the U.S.

Main Methods:

• Integration of clinimetrics and biomedical research.
• Europeanization of clinical trials.
• Incorporation of social psychology into outcome research.
• Focus on quality management and clinical practice guidelines.

Main Results:

• German surgery maintains a strong standing despite global research challenges.
• The integrated approach enhances the quality and reliability of surgical research.
• This distinct path offers a model for improving surgical research outcomes.

Conclusions:

• German surgical research's unique methodology, integrating diverse scientific disciplines, is highly effective.
• This approach, emphasizing quality and a broad scientific base, should be consistently pursued.
• The German model offers a valuable alternative to U.S. surgical research practices.