A core outcome set for future research in ectopic pregnancy – an international consensus development study

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating ectopic pregnancy have different outcomes which are defined and measured in diverse ways, which limits their ability to inform evidence-based clinical practice.To address methodological deficiencies in published RCTs and systematic reviews, this study has developed a core outcome set to guide future research in ectopic pregnancy.To identify potential outcomes, we performed a comprehensive literature review and interviews with individuals with lived experience in ectopic pregnancy. Potential core outcomes were then entered into a three-round Delphi survey. 154 participants from six continents, comprising healthcare professionals, researchers, and individuals with lived experience in ectopic pregnancy, completed all three rounds of the Delphi survey. Outcomes were prioritised at three consensus development meetings and recommendations were developed on how to report these outcomes where possible.Healthcare professionals, researchers, and individuals with lived experience in ectopic pregnancy RESULTS: Six outcomes reached full consensus, including treatment success, resolution time, number of additional interventions, adverse events, mortality and severe morbidity, and treatment satisfaction.The core outcome set with six outcomes for ectopic pregnancy will help standardise reporting of clinical trials, facilitate implementation of findings into clinical practice, and enhance patient centred care.