Editorial Commentary: Spinning "Spin" in Randomized Trials in Orthopaedic Surgery

Abstract

Reporting the results of a randomized trial can be complex. In some cases, the primary outcome may not achieve statistical significance (usually defined as P ≤ .05) but the information may be clinically meaningful. "Spinning" the results of a study to show them to be more favorable than they are in reality is a form of reporting bias. The best way around potential reporting bias is for readers to read the methods section first to evaluate exactly what was done, followed by the results section to interpret the outcomes and analysis. Then, and only then, can readers decide whether the findings are relevant to them and their patients.