The play of chance

Fertil Steril. 2006 May;85(5):1364-7; discussion 1368-70. doi: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2005.10.064. Epub 2006 Apr 5.

Abstract

Most randomized controlled trials are small relative to the clinical question they address, and chance causes more variability in the results of small trials. Thus, when small studies herald new treatment interventions, clinicians might wish to wait until the body of evidence is weighty and consistent enough to be convincing.

Publication types

  • Comment

MeSH terms

  • Acupuncture / methods*
  • Clinical Trials as Topic
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Data Interpretation, Statistical*
  • Evidence-Based Medicine / methods*
  • Evidence-Based Medicine / standards
  • Female
  • Guidelines as Topic
  • Humans
  • Infertility, Female / therapy*
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Outcome
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic / methods*
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic / standards
  • Reproductive Techniques, Assisted*
  • Treatment Outcome