A guide to interpreting a study of patient-reported outcomes

Outcomes measured from the patient perspective are particularly important in plastic surgery, where many of the treatments are aimed at improving physical function, psychosocial function, and quality of life. Understanding the measurement of patient-reported outcomes is critical to determine the value of the interventions performed, to better inform clinical decision-making, and to guide policy debates. It is critical that physicians understand their patients' individual values when making treatment and policy recommendations based on evidence. This guide outlines the questions that readers should ask when appraising literature using patient-reported outcomes.