Narrative Review to Meta-Analysis: A Cookbook Approach to Evidence Synthesis in Surgical Research.

Evidence synthesis is a complex approach to research that can consolidate the current understanding of a particular topic from various sources. A design hierarchy based upon reliability is described in detail. Methodology is described explicitly to provide readers with a foundation for performing and understanding published evidence synthesis. Resources that detail access to the comprehensive database are presented and explained. Special care is taken to discuss appraisal of studies prior to analysis.

Qualitative Analysis of Risk Factors and Foot and Ankle Injuries in Ballet Dancers.

BACKGROUND: Ballet dancers are exposed to high rates of foot and ankle injury. Nevertheless, there have been limited efforts to capture their perspectives regarding risk of injury, treatment compliance, and prevention. The purpose of this study was to portray the perspectives of ballet dancers collected through organized focus group discussions. METHODS: Seven focus group sessions were conducted, with 47 ballet dancers participating. The conversation was directed to consider a variety of factors related to injury, both direct and remote. Transcripts from these focus groups were coded into ten major themes: internal pressure, external pressure, ballet milestones, seeking treatment, treatment compliance, targeted treatment, return to dance, nondance activities, physical fatigue, and activity preparation. RESULTS: It was found that participants returned to dancing prematurely after injury, faced significant internal and external pressure, lacked adherence to suggested treatment, and identified provider communication as lacking. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study can help with efforts to reduce injuries, encourage treatment compliance, and improve injury prevention. Future studies might consider the effectiveness of specific interventional approaches.