Principles of Evidence-Based Orthopedics

Abstract

Evidence-based orthopedics combines the judgment of the clinician and values of the patient with the best available clinical evidence. The goal is to use the best available evidence to guide the management of individual patients based on their preferences. The proper evaluation of clinical trials helps to define the risks and benefits of different treatment options, aiding the clinician and patient in making an optimal treatment decision. In evidence-based orthopedics, clinicians actively search for the best available evidence to supplement their judgment. The best treatment option is influenced by the patient’s lifestyle, specific needs, and preferences as well as the judgment of the clinician. There is a five-step cycle called the evidence cycle that can help in applying the evidence-based orthopedics in daily practice. These include: assess, ask, acquire, appraise, and apply. Randomized controlled trials are considered the highest level of evidence, but other types of studies have value also.