Purpose

BOAST guidelines provide evidence-based, standardised best practice recommendations for the management of common and high-risk orthopaedic trauma conditions. They aim to improve patient outcomes by ensuring consistency and efficiency in trauma care across the UK. Key functions include:

• Clinical standardisation: Defines investigation pathways, surgical indications, rehabilitation protocols, and expected timelines, reducing variation across hospitals.
• Governance and accountability: Acts as a benchmark for auditing trauma care, enabling hospitals and regulatory bodies to assess compliance and identify areas for improvement.
• Integration with national policies: Supports NHS England, CQC, and trauma networks in meeting regulatory requirements and ensuring best practice.
• Flexibility and adaptability: Sets minimum standards while allowing local adaptation based on resources and expertise. BOASTs are regularly updated to reflect advances in trauma care.

Publisher

The British Orthopaedic Association (BOA) publishes BOAST guidelines. The BOA is the professional association for trauma and orthopaedic surgeons in the UK, responsible for setting and maintaining standards in orthopaedic practice.

BOAST guidelines are widely respected and frequently referenced as a benchmark for clinical care. They are often cited in litigation cases and service evaluations, making them an important medico-legal reference.

Creation process

BOAST guidelines are developed by expert panels, including trauma and orthopaedic surgeons, specialists in related fields and sometimes patient representatives. They are based on the latest research, national audits and professional consensus. The guidelines undergo peer review before publication.

BOAST focuses on high-impact trauma-related conditions that:

• Are commonly encountered in clinical practice
• Have significant morbidity or mortality if mismanaged
• Show variability in practice across the UK