Top 10 priorities for future ectopic pregnancy research: an international consensus development study.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the future priorities for ectopic pregnancy research.

DESIGN

Potential research questions were collated from an initial international survey, a systematic review of clinical practice guidelines, and Cochrane systematic reviews. A rationalized list of confirmed research uncertainties was prioritized in an interim international survey. Prioritized research uncertainties were discussed during a consensus development meeting. Using a formal consensus development method, the modified nominal group technique, diverse stakeholders identified the top 10 research priorities for future ectopic pregnancy research.

SUBJECTS: Healthcare professionals, people with lived experience of ectopic pregnancy, and others were brought together in an open and transparent process using formal consensus methods advocated by the James Lind Alliance.

EXPOSURE: Not applicable.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Top 10 research priorities for ectopic pregnancy.

RESULTS

The initial survey was completed by 855 participants from 35 countries, and 1,220 potential research questions were submitted. Three clinical practice guidelines and 43 Cochrane systematic reviews identified a further 24 potential research questions. A rationalized list of 49 confirmed research uncertainties was entered into an interim prioritization survey completed by 413 respondents from 20 countries. The top 10 research priorities were identified during a consensus development meeting involving 37 participants from 10 countries. These research priorities are diverse and seek answers to questions regarding prevention, treatment, and the longer-term impact of ectopic pregnancy.

CONCLUSION

We anticipate that the identified research priorities, developed to specifically highlight the most pressing clinical needs as perceived by healthcare professionals, people with lived experience of ectopic pregnancy, and others, will help research funding organizations and researchers to develop their future research agenda.