Overview
Featured Article
Daniels L, Ünlü C, de Korre N, et al. Randomized controlled trial of observational versus antibiotic treatment for a first episode CT proven uncomplicated acute diverticulitis. Br J Surg 2017;104(1):52-61
Expert Reviews
Methodological Reviewer
Jason Park MD, MEd, FRCSC, FACS, Department of Surgery, University of Manitoba
Clinical Reviewer
Neil Hyman MD, FACS, Department of Surgery, University of Chicago
Clinical Reviewer
Neil Parry MD FRCSC, FACS, Department of Surgery, Western University
Supplementary Article
Mulla SM, Scott IA, Jackevicius CA, You JJ, Guyatt GH. How to Use a Noninferiority Trial Users’ Guides to the Medical Literature. 2012;308(24):2605-2611
Questions
Please read the above articles and be prepared to discuss the following:
- What is the clinical question being addressed?
- Was the assignment of patients to treatment randomized and concealed?
- Were all patients who entered the trial properly accounted for and attributed for at is conclusion?
- Were patients, their clinicians and study personnel “blind” to treatment?
- Did novel and standard treatment groups start with the same prognosis?
- Was the effect of the standard treatment preserved?
- Did the investigators analyze patients according to the treatment they received, as well as to the groups to which they were assigned?
- How large and precise was the treatment effect?
- Can the results be applied to my patient care?
- Were all patient-important outcomes considered?
- Are the likely treatment benefits worth the potential harm and costs?
- State the conclusion. Have the authors addressed the clinical question posed?
- Does the evidence support the conclusion?