In 2024, GPM reviewers continue to make outstanding contributions to the peer review process. They demonstrated professional effort and enthusiasm in their reviews and provided comments that genuinely help the authors to enhance their work.
Hereby, we would like to highlight some of our outstanding reviewers, with a brief interview of their thoughts and insights as a reviewer. Allow us to express our heartfelt gratitude for their tremendous effort and valuable contributions to the scientific process.
January, 2024
Richard Wojdat, Mathilden Hospital Herford, Germany
January, 2024
Richard Wojdat
Dr. Richard Wojdat is considered a figurehead in the field of gynecological surgery and is celebrated for his groundbreaking work in minimally invasive, hybrid and robotic procedures. He has more than two decades of practical experience and continues to push the boundaries of gynecological surgical techniques. His repertoire includes the skillful use of conventional and hybrid laparoscopic instruments as well as innovative approaches such as the integration of indocyanine green (ICG) for increased precision. Dr. Wojdat's expertise shines particularly in oncologically safe, radical vaginal and laparoscopic procedures, where he always places emphasis on safety and precision. His significant contributions extend to advances in endometriosis diagnosis and surgical therapy, such as groundbreaking anesthesia-free laser conization and the use of transvaginal radiofrequency technology in fibroid treatment, resulting in significantly improved patient outcomes. Currently, Dr. Wojdat is establishing a state-of-the-art diagnostic and surgical center for women's health, further solidifying its leadership position in this field. He has been recognized as one of Germany's best doctors for six years in a row and continues to promote innovation in gynecological surgery. Learn more about him here.
Peer review plays a pivotal role in the scientific community by ensuring the integrity and quality of research, according to Dr. Wojdat. He thinks that it involves the evaluation of scholarly work by experts in the same field before it is published in academic journals or presented at conferences. Peer review helps to uphold standards of accuracy, validity, and reliability by subjecting research to rigorous scrutiny. Through this process, potential flaws or biases in the research methodology can be identified and addressed, contributing to the overall credibility of scientific findings. Furthermore, he points out that peer review encourages constructive feedback and facilitates the exchange of ideas among researchers. It helps to foster a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement within the scientific community. Ultimately, peer review serves as a safeguard against the dissemination of misleading or flawed research, thereby upholding the integrity of scientific knowledge and advancing the collective pursuit of truth and understanding.
Dr. Wojdat thinks that, in peer review, complete objectivity is an illusion because we are humans and we judge emotionally, even if we want to avoid it. This is precisely why it is important to put oneself aside, but to place the work in the context of overall medical development. He adds, “How is the solution sought here and how do others solve it is one thing and what consequences does this have for the patient and the doctor are the most important questions that are waiting for an answer.”
“I chose to review in GPM because the company is known for publishing high-quality research and is committed to advancing the field of gynecologic surgery. The appreciative and practical approach of the editors is also a central factor for me. They value reviewers' contributions and work collaboratively to ensure that published research is not only sophisticated but also relevant and impactful in clinical practice. The editors' uncomplicated and goal-oriented approach is impressive,” says Dr. Wojdat.
(by Lareina Lim, Brad Li)
