Methodology
ESGO’s guidelines are developed through a rigorous, evidence-based process designed to ensure high scientific quality, transparency, and clinical relevance. Each guideline is produced by an international group of experts and supported by a systematic literature search. The process also includes an independent external review by a broad panel of clinicians and patient representatives, ensuring diverse and comprehensive consultation.
While focused on gynaecological oncology, ESGO guidelines reflect a multidisciplinary approach involving specialists from fields such as radiation oncology, pathology, and other relevant disciplines.
Guidelines development process
-
Definition of the project
The project is defined before any scientific work begins, including the exact topic, stakeholders, chair(s) and number of experts.The project is defined before any scientific work begins, including the exact topic, stakeholders, chair(s) and number of experts.
-
Nomination of a multidisciplinary international development group
In line with EDI principles, strict nomination criteria ensure balanced geographical, gender, and subspecialty experts’ representation. In line with EDI principles, strict nomination criteria ensure balanced geographical, gender, and subspecialty experts’ representation.Â
-
Identification of scientific evidence
The methodologist undertakes a systematic literature review using the MEDLINE database.
-
Formulation of guidelines
The experts review the evidence put forward and prepares drafts per topic. The recommendations are discussed and finalised by the whole working group.
-
External evaluation of guidelines (international review)
A large panel of international multidisciplinary independent clinicians review the guidelines.
-
Integration of international reviewers’ comments
Finalisation of the reviewers’ comments and incorporation of feedback into the manuscript.
Key numbers
Number of guidelines developed: 28
Size of the group of reviewers: 100-300
Length of process: 1.5–2 years
Countries involved in external review: all European countries
Newly published
Watch guidelines webinars
ESGO Cervical Cancer Resource - Stratified Guidelines
David Cibula, Basel Refky, Anisa Mburu, Remi Nout
ESGO Guidelines for the management of ovarian cancer - Update
Ane Gerda Zahl Eriksson, Anna Fagotti
ESGO-INCIP Guidelines for the management of patients with gynaecological cancers during pregnancy
Frederic Amant, Michael Halaska, Christianne Lok, Anne De Middelaer, Paul Berveiller , Estelle Heggarty
ESGO-ESTRO-ESP Guidelines: Guidance for Daily Clinical Decision-Making: Adjuvant Therapy: Whom and how to Treat?
Nicole Concin, Remi Nout, Xavier MatÃas-Guiú, Antonio Gonzalez Martin, Nicoletta Colombo, Carien Creutzberg