Research priorities for lower limb amputation in patients with vascular disease

Introduction: Major lower limb amputation (MLLA) is a life-changing event often associated with high mortality and morbidity rates. Research into MLLA surgery is limited. The Vascular Society of Great Britain and Ireland (VSGBI) in partnership with the James Lind Alliance (JLA) aimed to identify and develop key research priorities for MLLA. Methods: A modified JLA Priority Setting Partnership was undertaken, encompassing all vascular practice. Two separate Delphi processes to identify research priorities were undertaken with healthcare professionals, patients and carers, led by the VSGBI. The priorities were then scored by the same participants and amalgamated to produce a list for final ranking. The final consensus meeting was attended by patients, carers and healthcare professionals from a variety of backgrounds involved in the care of people with MLLA. Using a nominal group technique, a ranked list of the top ten research priorities were identified. Results: A total of 481 clinicians submitted 1,231 research priorities relating to vascular surgery in general. Sixty-three MLLA-specific research priorities were combined into five final priorities. Three hundred and seventy-three patients or carers submitted 582 research priorities related to vascular surgery in general. Nine MLLA-specific research priorities were identified after combining similar priorities. The final consensus meeting produced a ranked top 10 list of research priorities relating to: MLLA prevention, supporting rehabilitation, improving clinical outcomes following MLLA (preventing/treating pain including phantom limb pain and improving wound healing) and research into information provision for patients undergoing MLLA. Conclusions: The top 10 MLLA research priorities provide guidance for researchers, clinicians and funders on the direction of future research questions that are important to both healthcare professionals and patients.

Do we need a UK vascular journal? Survey of multidisciplinary UK vascular specialists

Background: Prior to the development of the Journal of Vascular Societies Great Britain & Ireland (JVSGBI), there were limited opportunities for UK based vascular health professionals to publish research relevant for UK vascular practice. A survey was developed to evaluate the appetite and potential infrastructure for a UK vascular journal amongst vascular healthcare professionals. Methods: In May 2020, an online questionnaire was administered by The Vascular Society of Great Britain and Ireland (VSGBI) Research Committee, surveying vascular health professionals regarding the development of a UK-specific vascular journal. The survey was disseminated via email to multi-disciplinary members of the vascular community with links promoted on social media. Results: Responses were received from 359 individuals identifying predominantly as surgeons (38%), nurses (8%), technologists (10%), radiologists (20%), trainees (10%), physiotherapists (7%) and other (7%). The majority of participants (67%) indicated they would be in favour of a UK-specific vascular journal and that it should be available as an online quarterly publication. Almost three quarters (74%) of respondents thought a subscription fee should be included in societies’ membership fees. Free text comments highlighted a few concerns, suggesting the focus should instead be to improve the quality of existing vascular journals. However, most respondents welcomed the idea of a journal relevant to UK practice, with inclusivity of all UK vascular professions to encourage more collaborative working. Conclusions: Overall, feedback collected from the survey was positive and suggested a demand for a UK-specific vascular journal, providing an indication that the development of such a journal should be further explored. The results of this survey helped to inform the development of the JVSGBI.