An approach to difficult clinical problems

Often physicians use an intuitive approach to treatment, based on years of clinical experience and discussion with colleagues. However, some complex clinical problems in family practice require a formal, structured, rational apprach to decision making. This article describes how clinical decision analysis was used in a family practice unit, for a patient with a suspected loose hip prosthesis. The use of probabilities and working through a 'decision tree' assisted in the formation of a successful treatment plan.