A review of the Journal of Trauma.

Four hundred fifteen papers published in the Journal of Trauma from January 1985 through December 1986 were reviewed to document areas of future need. Analyses focused on: 1) the study design of each paper; 2) the quality of scientific reporting in 10% (n = 40) of randomly selected papers from four major study designs; 3) the subject material addressed in 242 trauma-related publications using the categories: acute care, epidemiology, biomechanics, prevention, and rehabilitation. Although the Journal of Trauma provides a consistent edifying mixture of study designs, there is a relative need for less descriptive retrospective/prospective reviews and case reports, and for more observational and interventional cohort designs. More precise documentation of specific research criteria would better substantiate scientific conclusions. In light of the contemporary ranges of issues as defined in Injury In America (1), broader multidisciplinary articles focusing on epidemiology, biomechanics, rehabilitation, and prevention of injury may benefit readers of the Journal of Trauma.