Introducing the CONSORT extension to pilot trials: enhancing the design, conduct and reporting of pilot or feasibility trials

 

Luciana P. F. Abbade¹, Joelcio F. Abbade², Lehana Thabane^3 4

 

1 Department of Dermatology and Radiotherapy, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University (UNESP – Univ Estadual Paulista), Av. Prof. Mário Rubens Guimarães Montenegro, s/n, Rubião Júnior, Campus UNESP, CEP 18.618-687, Botucatu, SP, Brazil.

2 Department of Obstetric and Gynecology, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University (UNESP – Univ Estadual Paulista), Botucatu, SP, Brazil.

3 Biostatistics Unit, Father Sean O'Sullivan Research Centre, St Joseph's Healthcare, Hamilton, ON, Canada.

4 Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada.

 

ABSTRACT

This editorial provides a brief overview of the importance of pilot or feasibility trials or studies, the challenges with current practices in their conduct and reporting, an introduction to the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) extension to pilot trials aimed at improving their reporting, along with some key resources on aspects related to pilot and feasibility studies.

 

Funding

Not applicable.

 

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Published online: 02 February 2018