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- Talk
- 24/03/2022
- UK
Evaluating and Establishing Correct Governance for Limb Reconstruction
Description
In this presentation, David Beard discusses the complexities and challenges of evaluation and governance in limb reconstruction surgery, emphasizing the importance of using advanced technologies such as robots, 3D printing, and new devices. He conveys that while evaluation in surgery is not a new concept, progressing towards high-level rigor in this area has been slow, necessitating a structured framework to ensure effective research and clinical implementation. Beard highlights the uncertainty that often accompanies surgical evaluation, both in posing questions and interpreting results, yet stresses that the difficulty of evaluation should not deter practitioners from pursuing it.
He references the surgical trials initiative established by Professor Dion Morton, which aims to provide a more robust framework for surgical evaluations, moving away from criticisms of poor surgical research. Beard suggests using the Ideal framework, guided by Peter McCulloch, to categorize research stages in surgical evaluation from initial design to full randomized controlled trials (RCTs).
Throughout the talk, he reinforces the idea of using sophisticated methodologies, including placebo controls and prospective data collection, to improve surgical outcomes. Beard also discusses current projects aimed at real-world evaluations of robotic-assisted surgeries and emphasizes the critical need for consensus on outcome measures in surgical research.
As examples, he mentions the PASHion trial, where personalized 3D-printed devices are created for individual patients, aiming to enhance surgical accuracy and minimize soft tissue irritation. He indicates that while innovation is vital, it must be paired with thorough evaluation to ensure safety and efficacy.
Finally, Beard calls for collaboration and input from the audience, the British Limb Reconstruction Society, on identifying relevant research questions, addressing potential obstacles in limb reconstruction, and fostering a shared enthusiasm for furthering surgical evaluation efforts.