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Identifying the gaps, reducing the waste, and setting priorities in Cochrane gynaecology research
  • +1
  • Marian Showell,
  • Devanshi Jani,
  • Cindy Farquhar,
  • Vanessa Jordan
Marian Showell
The University of Auckland Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences

Corresponding Author:m.showell@auckland.ac.nz

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Devanshi Jani
The University of Auckland
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Cindy Farquhar
The University of Auckland Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences
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Vanessa Jordan
The University of Auckland Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences
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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.