Transparency and Best Publishing Practices

Abstract

As Editor-in-Chief, International Surgery, I dedicate this editorial letter to emphasizing the importance of complete transparency in scholarly publishing and of strict adherence to best publishing practices for International Surgery.Our standards are based on the principles and guidelines outlined by the World Association of Medical Editors (WAME), the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE), and the Open Access Scholarly Publishers Association (ASPA), as well as several other highly principled, quality organizations dedicated to practicing complete transparency and following best publishing practices.International Surgery is owned by the International College of Surgeons (ICS) and is the official Journal for the ICS. The position of Editor-in-Chief is a highly important position in the ICS, as International Surgery is responsible for a major part of the educational mission of the College. The governing body of the ICS, the International Executive Council, appoints the Editor-in-Chief. The Editor-in-Chief provides semi-annual reports on the functioning of International Surgery to the International Executive Council.An excellent Editorial Review Board exists and is comprised of respected academic reviewers. The publication staff works closely with those providing peer reviews for International Surgery, with the objective of providing completed reviews on a timely basis for those authors who submit their manuscripts for consideration.Our fees, that are charged to authors in reference to the various publishing options that we provide, are clearly indicated on our website and in our printed materials.Copyright and licensing information is clearly stipulated and the International Surgery staff rigorously follow strict guidelines. A conflict of interest policy exists and is followed.Other additional guidelines are included in our principles of operation. Forthcoming editorial letters will reference these added guidelines.As is true in all endeavors of value, only one alternative exists in scholarly publishing, which is to be completely transparent and to follow the very best publishing practices.I welcome any questions or comments that you may have.