Consensus conference

What is a consensus conference?

A consensus conference brings together experts in a particular field to discuss a range
of pre-agreed subjects. Before the conference, a literature review is carried out to
identify relevant scientific papers that relate to each subject. These are circulated to
the participants so they can prepare for the conference. The subjects are then debated
with the aim of reaching a consensus (agreement) on research evidence and best
practice in that field. 

Why are they necessary?

Dental practice is underpinned by evidence-based research into the safety and
efficacy of different procedures. However, the quality or quantity of evidence available
is often not optimal. Sometimes the sample size is too small, or the procedure is too
new for long-term evidence of its efficacy to have been gathered. By bringing experts
together to examine the evidence-base, a consensus can generally be reached,
providing guidance for the wider scientific and dental community on which procedures
are appropriate for a particular patient.

What makes the EAO’s consensus conferences unique?

The EAO is unique in accepting no sponsorship whatsoever for its consensus
conferences. The cost of organising the conferences is borne solely by the
Association, and the only remit is to produce the best evidence-based guidance in
an unbiased environment. As such, the papers generated by these conferences have
particular value to the scientific community. 

How are the participants selected?

For a consensus conference to be effective, the most relevant group of participants
must be selected. The forthcoming conference has three scientific chairs who are
supported by a scientific committee of nine people. They select the participants and
may also take part in the discussions themselves. Although the EAO’s consensus
conferences are by invitation only, the conclusions they reach are disseminated
through Clinical Oral Implants Research and at the EAO’s annual scientific meetings.  

The European Association for Osseointegration is now organising its 3^rd Consensus Conference

Consensus Conferences consist in a three-day meeting in a inspiring environment and gather a number of osseointegration experts. The meetings are completely organised by the association without any external sponsoring for a strict science driven conference.

Consensus Conferences are organised in three of four working groups, each group being guided by a Chair and a Secretary. Rapporteurs prepare review papers as a basis for discussions in the groups. The group is expected to critically evaluate the manuscripts and modify them after acceptance by the group. Furthermore, each group produces a consensus report based on the information in the reviews and on the outcomes of the discussion. During plenary sessions, each group's consensus report is discussed and adjusted until there is a general consensus. Review papers are eventually published in the Clinical Oral Implants Research Journal. 

3rd EAO Consensus Conference Chairmen

Prof Christoph Hämmerle

Prof Marc Quirynen

Prof Björn Klinge