Systematic Mapping Review of Orthognathic Surgery (Protocol)

STUDY DESIGN This document details the planning phase of a systematic mapping review. OBJECTIVE The objective of this mapping review is to identify, describe, and organize evidence currently available from systematic reviews and primary studies regarding different co-interventions and surgical modalities used in orthognathic surgery (OS) and their outcomes. METHODS Systematic reviews (SRs), randomized controlled trials (RCTs), and observational studies that evaluate perioperative OS co-interventions and surgical modalities will be identified in an exhaustive search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, Epistemonikos, Lilacs, Web of Science, and CENTRAL. Grey literature will also be screened. RESULTS Expected results include identification of all PICO questions available in the evidence regarding OS and generation of evidence bubble maps, involving a matrix of all identified co-interventions, surgical modalities, and outcomes presented in the studies. This will achieve identification of research gaps and prioritization of new research questions. CONCLUSIONS The significance of this review will result in a systematic identification and characterization of the available evidence, leading to a reduction in research waste and a guidance of future efforts in developing studies for unsolved questions.