Interpreting a randomized trial report: evidence-based practice for the clinician

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to present a structured approach to help the reader with the objective interpretation of published randomized clinical trials. This process will promote an organized and critical appraisal of scientific evidence, which we believe to be an essential step prior to the introduction of published scientific findings into clinical practice. The reason to personally scrutinize and critically assess published reports is that the process of peer review is by no means perfect and methodological flaws can be uncovered, even in articles published in prestigious journals. The article elaborates on the substance of the consolidated standards of reporting trials (CONSORT) statements intended to facilitate the complete reporting of trials and aid in their critical assessment. The structure of the CONSORT guidelines was used as a basis for specific commentary, including cautions for the clinical interpretation, implications and impact of published randomized trial reports.

Keywords: CONSORT statements; interpreting published reports; scientific evidence.