Polish translation of the Anatomical Quality Assurance (AQUA) Checklist: new guidelines for reporting in original anatomical studies

Abstract

Recently, an improvement of the quality of reporting and methodology in original research has been observed. Major fields in research have introduced checklists aimed at promoting clear and univocal reporting of methods and results. The basis of evidence-based medicine (EBM) lies in transparent reporting of primary studies. Although clinical research progressed rapidly into evidence-based guidelines, the basic sciences, including anatomy, just recently started to use the rules of EBM. No anatomy-specific standardized research checklist has been introduced so far. Evidence-based anatomy (EBA) emerged as a new approach to research in anatomy that incorporates methods, such as meta-analysis and systematic review. High quality methodology and clear reporting of results of original studies are the basis of EBA. The Anatomical Quality Assurance (AQUA) Checklist is a new tool aimed to introduce univocal reporting of original anatomical studies. The checklist consists of 29 reporting items, which are essential in obtaining unambiguous and high-quality reporting of methods and results and ensuing straightforward interpretation and reproducibility. The AQUA Checklists been endorsed by anatomical associations, including the International Federation of Associations of Anatomists. Therefore, the authors of this study believe that introduction of the Polish version of AQUA Checklist into practice will improve the quality of original anatomical studies in Poland and will promote the EBA standards for years to come.

Keywords: AQUA; Anatomical Quality Assurance; checklist; evidence based anatomy.