2021 Annual Meeting Manuscript Lectures-How to Review a Delphi Consensus Statement

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Video Summary

This presentation discusses the Delphi methodology, widely used to gain expert consensus on clinical issues lacking clear evidence. Originating in the 1950s for forecasting, Delphi has evolved into an iterative technique where experts anonymously rate and refine questionnaires over multiple rounds to reach consensus or dissensus. The speaker highlights challenges in Delphi studies in orthopedics: inconsistent reporting, panel selection, and defining consensus thresholds. To improve quality, they developed the "Discipline" 22-item reporting guideline based on systematic review and existing standards (CONSORT, PRISMA). Key elements include clear study objectives, rationale, pre-published protocols, diverse expert panels, transparent methodology, steering committees, and detailed reporting of results and limitations. The presentation stresses Delphi is complementary, not a replacement for rigorous trials. Audience questions addressed expert selection criteria, anonymity to avoid bias, authorship vs. acknowledgment of panelists, minimum Delphi rounds (at least three), and reporting gradations of consensus strength. This work aims to standardize Delphi reporting, enhancing study validity and utility in clinical decision-making.

Asset Caption

Alan Getgood, M.D.

Keywords

Delphi methodology

expert consensus

clinical decision-making

orthopedics

reporting guidelines

systematic review