Development and validation of an index for evaluating the quality of acupuncture articles

Authors

  • David Gonçalves Nordon Colégio Brasileiro de Acupuntura (ABACO - CBA-SP) FCMS/PUC-SP
  • Reinaldo José Gianini FCMS/PUC-SP
  • Gisele Regina de Azevedo FCMS/PUC-SP

Keywords:

acupuncture, meta-analysis as topic, methodology, research.

Abstract

Introduction: results from acupuncture studies may be quite dissonant, from extremely to very little effective. Indexes and checklists are constantly used for evidence-based medicine in order to evaluate the quality of a trial. In spite of that, there is no data on an index developed for evaluating the acupuncture technique. Methods: a literature review was performed; the main items regarding the technique were chosen and a score was attributed to each, based on the Jadad Scale. The index was then evaluated by three experienced acupuncturist, who could suggest modifications and enhancements, and applied it in ten different articles. Their scores for each article and item were compared. Results: the index consists of 6 items, scoring from 0 to 13 in the first part, and 2 items, scoring from 0 to 8 in the second. The statistical comparison presented homogeneity in the total results and specifically in every question between evaluators. Discussion: the index showed to be easily applied and subjective only when previous knowledge from the evaluator is needed in certain items. However, when applied only according to what is informed in the article, even a non-specialist can use it. Conclusion: we created an index of acupuncture technique adequacy that may be used by specialists and non-specialists, with relative subjectivity that does not influence homogeneity in scoring by different evaluators.

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Author Biographies

David Gonçalves Nordon, Colégio Brasileiro de Acupuntura (ABACO - CBA-SP) FCMS/PUC-SP

Médico pela FCMS/PUC-SP. Acupunturista e Shiatsuterapeuta pelo Colégio Brasileiro de Acupuntura

Reinaldo José Gianini, FCMS/PUC-SP

Professor do Depto. de Medicina FCMS/PUC-SP

Gisele Regina de Azevedo, FCMS/PUC-SP

Professora do Depto. de Ciências Fisiológicas FCMS/PUC-SP

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Published

2012-06-27

How to Cite

1.
Nordon DG, Gianini RJ, Azevedo GR de. Development and validation of an index for evaluating the quality of acupuncture articles. Rev. Fac. Ciênc. Méd. Sorocaba [Internet]. 2012Jun.27 [cited 2024Dec.21];14(2):59-63. Available from: https://revistas.pucsp.br/index.php/RFCMS/article/view/8277

Issue

Vol. 14 No. 2 (2012)

Section

Original Article

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