Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 17, 2026

Technique and Patient Selection Criteria of Right Anterior Mini-Thoracotomy for Minimal Access Aortic Valve Replacement
Published on: March 26, 2018
Propensity scores: Methods, considerations, and applications in the Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery
Timothy L McMurry1, Yinin Hu2, Eugene H Blackstone3
1Department of Public Heath Sciences, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Va.
Objective:
To review the published literature using propensity scoring, describe shortcomings in the use of this technique, and provide conceptual background for understanding and correctly implementing studies that use propensity matching.
Methods:
We survey the published statistical literature and make recommendations for a set of standard criteria for studies that use propensity matching. We evaluated adherence to these criteria in recent publications in the Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery and determined how well the standards were applied.
Results:
We found that studies that use propensity matching are rarely documented well enough to be convincing in their results. When documentation is available, statistical shortcomings are common.
Conclusions:
Improved statistical practice is needed when using propensity scoring. This article suggests standard criteria for using this method in Journal publications.
More Related Videos
06:55Inverse Probability of Treatment Weighting Propensity Score using the Military Health System Data Repository and National Death Index
Published on: January 8, 2020
08:49Author Spotlight: Enhancing Graft Viability Assessment Through Quantitative Metrics and Innovative Reservoir Systems
Published on: August 2, 2024
Related Concept Videos
Pathophysiology of Cardiac Performance
Pulmonary Hypertension: Classification and Pathogenesis
There are various classifications for PH, each relating to different underlying causes and also...
Pressure Relationships in Thoracic Cavity
Breathing Mechanisms
Both intra-alveolar and intrapleural pressures rely on specific lung properties. The ability to breathe—allowing air to enter the lungs during...
Pulmonary Function Tests
Pulmonary Function Tests are crucial diagnostic tools for assessing respiratory function, particularly in patients with chronic respiratory disorders. They comprehensively evaluate lung volumes, ventilatory function, breathing mechanics, diffusion, and gas exchange. These tests help diagnose pulmonary diseases and play a significant role in monitoring disease progression, evaluating disability, and assessing response to therapy.
PFTs involve using a spirometer, a...
Types of Biopharmaceutical Studies: Controlled and Non-Controlled Approaches
Non-controlled studies, commonly employed for initial exploration, lack a control group, rendering them susceptible to biases and external influences. In contrast, controlled...
Blood Studies for Cardiovascular System I: Cardiac Biomarkers
The essential diagnostic tools for detecting myocardial necrosis and monitoring individuals suspected of having acute coronary syndrome (ACS) include:
Troponins
Troponins, particularly cardiac troponins I and T, are the most precise and sensitive markers of myocardial injury. They are detectable within 4-6 hours of myocardial injury and remain...