The limitations of observational studies on the treatment of severe sepsis

AUTOR(ES)

Wiedermann, Christian J

FONTE

BioMed Central

RESUMO

Observational studies usually agree with randomised, controlled trials. It is a logical fallacy, however, to suggest that agreement in one direction implies prediction in the other direction. Observational studies are not scientifically capable of proving or disproving hypotheses such as the efficacy and safety of the treatment of severe sepsis with antithrombin. Observational studies are difficult to analyse and interpret because of the heterogeneity of real-life patient populations, the lack of standardised treatment regimens, the lack of standardised indications for treatment, and the lack of predefined endpoints.

Documentos Relacionados

• The limitations of observational studies on the treatment of severe sepsis – authors' response
• Invited Commentary: Assessing Treatment Effects by Using Observational Analyses—Opportunities and Limitations
• Safety assessment of drotrecogin alfa (activated) in the treatment of adult patients with severe sepsis
• Severe Serratia liquefaciens Sepsis following Vitamin C Infusion Treatment by a Naturopathic Practitioner
• Strengthening the reporting of observational studies in epidemiology (STROBE) statement: guidelines for reporting observational studies