A mixed methods case study investigating how randomised controlled trials (RCTs) are reported, understood and interpreted in practice.

ABSTRACT:

Background

While randomised controlled trials (RCTs) provide high-quality evidence to guide practice, much routine care is not based upon available RCTs. This disconnect between evidence and practice is not sufficiently well understood. This case study explores this relationship using a novel approach. Better understanding may improve trial design, conduct, reporting and implementation, helping patients benefit from the best available evidence.

Methods

We employed a case-study approach, comprising mixed methods to examine the case of interest: the primary outcome paper of a surgical RCT (the TIME trial). Letters and editorials citing the TIME trial's primary report underwent qualitative thematic analysis, and the RCT was critically appraised using validated tools. These anal

SUBMITTER: Byrne BE 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7216481 | biostudies-literature | 2020 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature