Relative contributions of surgeons and decision support systems

Evidence-based medicine came into focus in 1992 when scholars recognized the need for valid information required for optimal patient care. Because of the increasing volume and uncertain quality of new knowledge, traditional sources of information such as books and journals failed to meet the needs of busy practitioners.Evidence-based medicine promoted strategies for identifying and appraising relevant information and making it readily available. Surgeons face unique challenges in the recognition and application of best evidence. Evidence-based surgery requires careful appraisal of the existing evidence, expanding the pool of level 1 evidence,and improving the availability of best evidence. Ultimately, the organization of systems will incorporate best evidence into the processes of care and will document the outcomes of care.