[Evidence-based medicine and anaesthesiology--six steps towards implementation into clinical practice]

Whenever evidence-based medicine (EbM) is mentioned among physicians, it evokes many different and contradictory reactions. On the one hand a lot of physicians have heard of this concept, but may hardly associate anything with it. On the other hand most of the physicians seem to be skeptical rather than in favour of evidence-based medicine. They seem to be concerned about restrictions in daily clinical decision-making or negative implications for the relationship between patient and physician. In this article we would like to deal with the question whether evidence-based medicine is useful for clinicians and which chances are provided for both the physicians and the patients by using it. First, the methodology and aims of evidence-based medicine are introduced. Second, by using an example of clinical anaesthesiology, we discuss the six formal steps for implementing this method. Third, important points which help to assess clinical studies are mentioned. In conclusion we would like to point out that evidence-based medicine is no entirely new concept of medicine but aims to highlight a solid and conscientious scientific basis of clinical decision-making. Thus, evidence-based medicine may act as a methodological strategy helping to clear the proceedings of decision-making and improve the provision of medical care to patients. Furthermore, it may guarantee a rapid transfer of knowledge from outcome-related research to patient care.