Identifying the gaps, reducing the waste, and setting priorities in
Cochrane gynaecology research
Abstract
Objective The aim of this project was to identify gaps and research
waste in the dissemination of Cochrane gynaecology evidence in the
Cochrane database of systematic reviews (CDSR). Design A research
article Setting The Cochrane Gynaecology and Fertility (CGF) Group’s
specialised register of random controlled trials (RCTs). Sample Trials
looking at benign gynaecological conditions, contained in the CGF
specialised register, published between the years 2010-2011. Methods
Gynaecology trials from the CGF specialised register were matched, by
the specific gynaecological issue and treatment, to existing Cochrane
reviews. Unmatched trials were categorised to develop and prioritise new
review topics. Main outcome measures Proportions Results 740 trials,
published from 2010 to 2011, were exported from the specialised
register, after removing duplicates and out of scope trials, 185 of
these trials were found to be already included in Cochrane reviews. 422
trials were found to be unused, however 192 (26%) of these could be
included in an existing CGF SR if it were updated. 230 trials (32%)
were not matched to any review title and from these 21 new review titles
were developed. The topic with the largest number of associated ‘unused’
trials, was ‘Plant and herbal extracts for symptoms of menopause’.
Conclusions This project was used to consider unused trials, prioritise
new review topics and identify those reviews that need to be updated,
thereby identifying the gaps in evidence for women with gynaecological
problems.