The Reporting Quality of Randomized Controlled Trials in Orthodontics

Objectives: Accurate trial reporting facilitates evaluation and better use of study results. The objective of this article is to investigate the quality of reporting of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in leading orthodontic journals, and to explore potential predictors of improved reporting. Methods: The 50 most recent issues of 4 leading orthodontic journals until November 2013 were electronically searched. Reporting quality assessment was conducted using the modified CONSORT statement checklist. The relationship between potential predictors and the modified CONSORT score was assessed using linear regression modeling. Results: 128 RCTs were identified with a mean modified CONSORT score of 68.97% (SD = 11.09). The Journal of Orthodontics (JO) ranked first in terms of completeness of reporting (modified CONSORT score 76.21%, SD = 10.1), followed by American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics (AJODO) (73.05%, SD = 10.1). Journal of publication (AJODO: beta = 10.08, 95% CI: 5.78, 14.38; JO: beta = 16.82, 95% CI: 11.70, 21.94; EJO: beta = 7.21, 95% CI: 2.69, 11.72 compared to Angle), year of publication (beta = 0.98, 95% CI: 0.28, 1.67 for each additional year), region of authorship (Europe: beta = 5.19, 95% CI: 1.30, 9.09 compared to Asia/other), statistical significance (significant: beta = 3.10, 95% CI: 0.11, 6.10 compared to non-significant) and methodologist involvement (involvement: beta = 5.60, 95% CI: 1.66, 9.54 compared to non-involvement) were all significant predictors of improved modified CONSORT scores in the multivariable model. Additionally, median overall Jadad score was 2 (IQR = 2) across journals, with JO (median = 3, IQR = 1) and AJODO (median = 3, IQR = 2) presenting the highest score values. Conclusion: The reporting quality of RCTs published in leading orthodontic journals is considered suboptimal in various CONSORT areas. This may have a bearing in trial result interpretation and use in clinical decision making and evidence-based orthodontic treatment interventions.