Assessment of reporting completeness in acupuncture studies on patients with functional constipation using the STRICTA guidelines

Objective: To evaluate the completeness of reporting of acupuncture interventions in trials for functional con-stipation (FC) following the STandards for Reporting Interventions in Clinical Trials of Acupuncture (STRICTA) guidelines. Methods: We searched eight databases for all published trials, including clinical trials, pilot/feasibility studies, observational studies, and case studies, for acupuncture in patients with FC up to June 31, 2021. The completeness of reporting was evaluated using the STRICTA guidelines. Results: Finally, 99 studies were included and analysed based on the latest STRICTA guidelines. Out of the 17 analysed STRICTA sub-items, only five were found to be appropriately reported in more than 90% of the trials, while five were completely reported in less than 30%. Conclusions: The reporting completeness of acupuncture trials for FC in accordance with STRICTA guidelines is moderate, with poor guideline adherence for several items. Clinical trial reports should be further improved in accordance with STRICTA guidelines to enhance the completeness of evidence. There is also a need to explore the underlying reasons as to why the authors did not report these items and to develop strategies for improving guideline compliance.

Automated summary

The completeness of reporting acupuncture interventions for functional constipation in accordance with STRICTA guidelines is moderate, with poor adherence to the guidelines for several items. Clinical trial reports should be improved to enhance the completeness of evidence, and efforts should be made to explore the reasons behind the lack of reporting and develop strategies for improving guideline compliance.