Medical Device and Pharmaceutical Industry Employees as Medical Research Publication Authors.

Abstract

As an editorial policy, medical device and pharmaceutical industry employees are generally permitted to publish original scientific research in Arthroscopy journal but are not permitted to publish systematic reviews. All authors complete the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors Form for Disclosure of Potential Conflicts of Interest, which are thoughtfully considered by our reviewers and editors and readers. In accord with the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, we believe that "manufacturers of medical devices, biologics, drugs, and other items use(d) in the care of the patient…play an important role in…the development of new technologies. This collaborative effort ensures that patients have the best outcomes through the invention and testing of new technology, research, and evaluation of existing technology." Our peer-review process mitigates against bias including but not limited to commercial bias in the interpretation of scientific research data. In the end, our goal is to publish the best science, and as above, industry plays "an important role in…(t)his collaborative effort."