Pilot and feasibility studies in stroke rehabilitation: reporting quality, progression to trials, and barriers: a scoping review

Introduction Pilot and feasibility studies are designed to determine whether a future trial is warranted. In stroke rehabilitation, such studies have been increasingly published over the years. To clarify how well these studies support future trials, we aimed to: (1) assess the quality of reporting of pilot and feasibility studies aimed to improve mobility (ie, walking) after stroke; (2) examine whether they progress to randomized controlled trials (RCTs); and (3) explore the barriers in following up on these studies.Design Scoping review.Participants Adults (>18 years) after stroke.Intervention Interventions to improve mobility (ie, walking).Results 28 papers were included. The quality of reporting of the studies was 6.1 out of 11 points. Only 3 out of 26 studies (12%) progressed to a definitive RCT. Of those authors who replied, the main reason for not proceeding to an RCT was lack of funding.Conclusion The quality of reporting of pilot and feasibility studies still needs to improve, especially when describing the methods section. In addition, these studies should be designed a priori to provide transparency in reporting and enhance value in guiding future trials.Registration: 10.17605/OSF.IO/ENJ94