Bridging the gap: Improving data sharing practices in surgical research: A cross-sectional analysis

Abstract

Background: Data sharing is critical for advancing medical knowledge, improving patient outcomes, and ensuring research transparency and reproducibility. Despite the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors (ICMJE) guidelines mandating data-sharing statements (DSS) in clinical trials, compliance in surgical research remains inconsistent.Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, a systematic review, and cross-sectional analysis were conducted on 1,094 articles from the top five h-5 indexed surgery journals published between January 1, 2020, and December 31, 2023. Factors influencing DSS inclusion were assessed using hierarchical logistic regression, and thematic analysis was performed on DSS content. A comprehensive search was conducted in MEDLINE (PubMed) using ISSNs of the selected journals, and articles were screened for eligibility based on predefined criteria.Results: Out of 1,094 articles, only 141 (12.89%) included DSS, with higher rates in clinical trials (18.05%) compared to cohort studies (5.20%). Government and industry-funded studies were more likely to include DSS. Open-access articles had higher DSS rates (18.95%) than non-open-access articles (4.72%). Hierarchical logistic regression indicated significant variability among journals, with higher impact factor journals more likely to include DSS. Thematic analysis revealed prevalent themes of gatekeeper roles, conditional data availability, and privacy concerns. Of the 96 corresponding authors contacted, 18 were willing to share data.Conclusion: Despite slight improvements, data sharing in top surgery journals remains low, particularly in journals with higher impact factors and funded studies. Implementing robust policies and promoting transparency in surgical research is essential for advancing medical knowledge and improving patient outcomes. Further efforts are required to enhance data-sharing practices within the surgical community