Medsyntax: A new open-source tool for enhanced literature research

Abstract

The challenge of formulating effective search queries and navigating vast databases has long been a concern for researchers, healthcare professionals and students. Medsyntax offers a solution to these problems by providing visual support, simplifying the process of combining search terms, and ensuring users grasp the query's structure and hierarchy. Utilizing HTML elements, Medsyntax effectively visualizes search strategies, featuring an inline scope-driven editor and real-time error detection. It’s compatible with major medical databases such as PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and Scopus. As part of our ambition, we plan to add compatibility with non-medical databases in the future. Medsyntax's efficiency has been validated with significant time reductions in crafting precise search strategies during Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) courses. It’s URL-based sharing fosters collaboration and knowledge exchange among healthcare professionals, researchers, and students. Numerous hospitals and educational institutions, including the Martini Hospital in Groningen, have successfully implemented Medsyntax. In conclusion, Medsyntax is a game-changer in medical literature research, empowering users to overcome information retrieval challenges and enhancing evidence-based decision-making to elevate the quality of healthcare practices.