European Reference Network (ERN) ReCONNET methodology for the cross-cultural adaptation of instruments for research and care in the context of rare connective tissue diseases (CROSSADAPT)

The traditional process of intercultural adaptation, while suitable for one or a few target languages, is not optimal for developing instruments for rare connective tissue diseases (CTDs) in multiple languages simultaneously. The European Reference Network ReCONNET presents the protocol for a novel methodology for cross-cultural adaptation of instruments for research and care in the context of rare CTDs (ReCONNET-CROSSADAPT). It is initiated by the identification of ‘key-terms’ that are crucial for maintaining the original meaning of the source document. Each language group, led by a senior member and two collaborators, independently assesses the existence and equivalence of these key terms in target languages. Reconciliation meetings are held to establish agreed-upon terms for consistent usage across translations when difficulties arise with key-terms. Subsequently, each language group translates the source document, followed by a reconciliation meeting involving one CTD patient in each group. The purpose of this meeting is to address potential discrepancies among translations, ensuring a comprehensive assessment from a linguistic, cultural and patient perspective. Collective feedback and consensus-based decision-making guide the resolution process. This methodology eliminates the need for backward translation, optimizing time and cost utilization. This new ReCONNET-CROSSADAPT methodology ensures linguistic accuracy, cultural relevance, and contextual appropriateness for the cross-cultural adaptation of instruments for research and care in the context of rare CTDs.