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Research Article: Development of CORE-CM core outcome domain sets for trials of Chinese medicine for lumbar spinal stenosis

Date Published: 2023-10-16

Abstract:
Objectives Most Asian countries have employed Chinese medicine (CM) and Western medicine to treat lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS). Evidence synthesis and comparison of effectiveness are difficult since outcomes examined and presented through trials possess heterogeneity. This study aimed to solve the outcome problems for CM clinical trials in LSS by building a core outcome set (COS). Methods To achieve an agreement on a set of core outcome domains, a four-phase study was carried out. First, we identified candidate outcome domains by systematically reviewing trials. In addition, we identified outcome domains associated with patients by conducting semistructured interviews with patients. Next, outcome domains were processed through a national two-round Delphi survey, in which 18 patients and 21 experts were recruited. Finally, the above domains were converted as a core outcome domain set based on a consensus meeting, in which 24 stakeholders were recruited. Results Seventeen outcome subdomains were identified by the systematic review and interviews. The Delphi survey assigned a priority to four outcome domains in the first round and four outcomes additionally in the second round. The core outcome domains were determined through discussion and redefinition of outcomes in the consensus meeting: pain and discomfort, health-related quality of life, lumbar function, activities of daily living, measures of walking, patient global assessment, adverse events and CM-specific outcomes. Conclusion COS-CM-LSS is likely to enhance the consistency of outcomes reported in clinical trials. In-depth research should be conducted for the exploration of the best methods to examine the above outcomes.

Introduction:
Lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) arises from spinal anatomical or functional narrowing with a negative effect on the spinal cord and nerve roots, characterised by pain and discomfort in legs, buttocks and lumbar spine, as well as disability of walking capacity. 1 The above discomfort and pain can be increased by walking and alleviated through sitting or lumbar flexion. 2 LSS affects a global population of nearly 103 million 3 and 11% of the elderly in the USA. 4 Most LSSs are treated non-operatively, with physical…

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