Statistical evaluation is a vital part of many communications. These guidelines have been written for the benefit of sound scientific work and to help authors prepare their manuscripts in accordance with good statistical standards. The guidelines are applicable to retrospective clinical studies as well as to experimental studies, randomized clinical trials and epidemiological studies. However, all aspects are not equally important for all types of studies. For instance, randomized clinical trials typically include a given number of patients based on calculations of statistical power. In exploratory experimental studies, the number of units studied may be based on other considerations, but may still be justified.
The following general principles should also be followed: The investigator should ensure that his data are of high quality. All data should also be stored and retrievable at request. The use of a statistical method presupposes appropriate knowledge and understanding. Presentation of statistical results should focus on their clinical, not statistical, importance.
Acta Orthopaedica 2008 - Last modified: 2010-08-08 - Webmaster: webmaster@actaorthop.org