Research Ethics Policy

Impact Surgery is committed to maintaining high standards of research ethics, publication integrity, and transparency. The journal expects that all research it publishes has been conducted in accordance with recognised ethical principles and applicable regulatory requirements, and that ethical considerations are clearly reported and appropriately addressed. This policy describes the journal’s approach to ethical oversight and decision-making. Author-specific ethical requirements are set out separately in the Article Ethics Requirements section.

Ethical standards and principles

The journal expects research to be conducted in accordance with internationally recognised ethical principles, including respect for persons, beneficence, and justice. Editorial decisions take into account whether research has been designed, conducted, analysed, and reported in a manner that respects participants, protects confidentiality, and minimises harm. The journal follows established guidance on publication ethics and editorial conduct and applies these principles consistently across submissions and published content.

Human research ethics

For research involving human participants, human data, or human biological material, the journal expects that appropriate ethical approval or exemption has been obtained prior to the start of the research. Editorial assessment includes consideration of whether ethical oversight appears proportionate to the nature of the study and whether ethical approvals and consent processes are clearly reported. Where ethical approval is not required under local regulations, authors are expected to provide a clear justification. The journal may request further information or documentation where the ethical status of a study is unclear.

Informed consent and participant protection

The journal expects that informed consent has been obtained where required and that participants’ rights, dignity, and welfare have been protected throughout the research process. Editorial assessment considers whether consent processes are appropriate and whether the reporting of participant information respects confidentiality and privacy.

Research involving vulnerable populations

Research involving vulnerable populations requires particular care. The journal expects that appropriate safeguards have been applied and that ethical approvals and consent processes reflect the increased responsibilities associated with such research. Manuscripts may be subject to additional scrutiny where vulnerabilities are present.

Animal research

Impact Surgery does not routinely publish animal research. Where animal data are included as part of translational or methodological work, the journal expects compliance with relevant ethical standards and legal requirements for animal welfare and the reporting of appropriate approvals.

Data integrity and responsible conduct of research

The journal expects authors to present research honestly and transparently. Fabrication, falsification, plagiarism, inappropriate image manipulation, and selective reporting are not acceptable. Editorial assessment may include the use of tools or checks to support detection of potential integrity concerns. Where concerns arise, the journal may request clarification, additional data, or supporting documentation, and may contact authors’ institutions or other relevant bodies where appropriate.

Handling of ethical concerns and misconduct

Concerns relating to research ethics, authorship, data integrity, or other aspects of publication ethics may be raised before or after publication. Such concerns are handled by the editorial team in accordance with recognised publication ethics guidance. Where necessary, the journal may issue corrections, retractions, or expressions of concern to maintain the integrity of the scholarly record. Decisions are made on a case-by-case basis, with due process and proportionality.

Editorial responsibility and independence

Responsibility for ethical oversight rests with the editorial team. Ethical considerations form part of editorial decision-making at all stages of the publishing process. Editorial decisions are made independently of the publisher and any external interests.