Observation vs. Antibiotic Treatment for Uncomplicated Acute Diverticulitis

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 ReviewerNeil 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:

  1. What is the clinical question being addressed?
  2. Was the assignment of patients to treatment randomized and concealed?
  3. Were all patients who entered the trial properly accounted for and attributed for at is conclusion?
  4. Were patients, their clinicians and study personnel “blind” to treatment?
  5. Did novel and standard treatment groups start with the same prognosis?
  6. Was the effect of the standard treatment preserved?
  7. Did the investigators analyze patients according to the treatment they received, as well as to the groups to which they were assigned?
  8. How large and precise was the treatment effect?
  9. Can the results be applied to my patient care?
  10. Were all patient-important outcomes considered?
  11. Are the likely treatment benefits worth the potential harm and costs?
  12. State the conclusion. Have the authors addressed the clinical question posed?
  13. Does the evidence support the conclusion?