An update on the standardized reporting of information on human cadaver and body donor utilization in prominent clinical journals in different fields between 2020 and 2024

Abstract

Standardized reporting around the use of human cadavers or body donors, including the documentation of ethical considerations, has been a subject of recent debate. In this context, this study aimed to investigate changes over time in the reporting of ethical parameters in leading clinical journals representing various disciplines. All articles involving human cadavers and body donors studies published in Clinical Orthopedics and Related Research, Journal of Neurosurgery, and Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery between January 2020 and December 2024 were analyzed. Each article was assessed according to the ethical parameters for human cadavers and body donors, as reported and suggested by prior research. The extent to which the articles provided information on biological characteristics, preservation method(s), source, and ethical/legal permissions was recorded. From the assessed articles, 41.5% of the publications included information on age and sex. The vast majority reported the tissue preservation method (78.5%), while the source of the specimens was omitted in 57% of the articles. Information on informed consent of donors appeared in 24% of the articles, with ethical approval mentioned in 32%. Only 10.5% of the articles acknowledged the cadavers or body donors and their families with gratitude. The results indicate a lack of consistent reporting of ethical parameters. The findings suggest that current publications do not adequately meet previously recommended parameters for reporting research utilizing deceased persons, highlighting the need for clearer journal policies and consistent enforcement to ensure transparency, scientific rigor, and respect for donors.

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