The ability to critically appraise a research study is a key skill as a medical professional. This is particularly vital in the context of working in medicine, where evidence-based practice must be at the forefront of decision-making. It is crucial to be able to identify high-quality evidence and scientifically rigorous methodology when addressing a research question or making a treatment recommendation. Our patients rely on us to be honest and transparent, and to only offer treatments that are both safe and efficacious.
The global cosmetic surgery market in 2023 was USD $77.36 billion and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.2% during 2024-2032.1 Therefore, we must acknowledge that there are potentially huge financial motivations when reporting study outcomes.
Large randomised control trials (RCTs) are regarded as providing the most reliable and robust evidence when examining the effectiveness of interventions and treatments.1, 2 One key reason for this is…