Is CONSORT a Risk of Bias Tool for Experimental Studies: A Big Misunderstanding.

INTRODUCTION

In order to avoid bias in systematic reviews (SRs), the accuracy in selection of risk of bias (RoB) assessment tools is essential to obtain highest level of evidence for evidence-based decision making in health care. We aimed to review how 'CONSORT statement', as a reporting quality of randomized controlled trials, has been misused in recent SRs as a ROB tool.

METHODS

A mini-review was performed in international databases including PubMed, Google Scholar and hand-searches for published and unpublished literature from 2000 to 2021 and written in English. The following keywords: risk of bias, "Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials", CONSORT, "systematic review" were used. Citations were screened and those meeting our inclusion criteria were retained.

RESULTS

A total of 11 SRs were identified that misused CONSORT as a ROB tool, four of which were used only CONSORT as ROB tool. Different authentic magazines from various countries were recognized.

CONCLUSION

The CONSORT statement aims to increase clarity and consistency of transparency of reporting in randomized controlled trials. It is quite essential to draw the attention of SR researchers, journal editors/reviewers as well as the reading audience to the fact that CONSORT statement CONSORT statement is not a ROB tool.