- Podcast
- 02/09/2020
- UK
Publishing Study Protocols: Maximizing Research Transparency and Spotting Spurious Statistics
Description
In this month's episode of the BJJ podcast, host Andrew Duckworth welcomes listeners to a discussion centered on the importance of transparency in research, especially in the context of publishing study protocols and randomized controlled trials. Andrew expresses gratitude to the readers, authors, and listeners who support The Bone & Joint Journal, as well as to the diverse guests joining him for this particular episode.
Joining Andrew are editor-in-chief Professor Fares Haddad, specialty editor Dan Perry, and trauma editor Professor Matt Costa. Together, they delve into an editorial written by Perry and Costa that emphasizes the significance of protocol registration for maximizing research transparency and recognizing spurious statistics.
The conversation explores how randomization in controlled trials is vital for answering clinical questions effectively, while also discussing the common biases that can arise even in seemingly well-structured studies. Dan highlights the need for clear communication about objectives and outcomes from the onset, while Matt elaborates on how bias can compromise research integrity and the critical importance of trial registration.
Listeners are educated about the various steps involved in trial design and publication, and the hosts encourage adherence to best practices in research methodology. The concept of registering observational studies and systematic reviews is touched upon, as the panel considers how open access journals like Bone & Joint Open can facilitate the documentation and dissemination of study protocols.
Overall, this episode serves as an informative resource for researchers and the wider medical community, outlining the necessary steps to ensure clinical trials contribute positively to medical knowledge and practice. The team wraps up the discussion encouraging listeners to engage with the podcast on social media.