Do existing methodological instruments adequately support the translational development of medical infrared thermography? A systematic methodological review and empirical meta-research audit

This multiphase methodological study will evaluate whether existing methodological instruments adequately support the translational development of medical infrared thermography. It combines a systematic methodological review, an independently derived matrix of translational requirements, a structured coverage-gap analysis, and an empirical meta-research audit of published thermography studies. The study will distinguish insufficient guidance from fragmented guidance, inadequate operationalization, reporting uncertainty, and non-adoption of existing guidance. It will not develop a new framework, guideline, checklist, readiness score, or clinical recommendation.