[Evidence-based trauma and orthopedic surgery : 20 years after Sackett]

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Evidence-Based Medicine
• Trauma Care

Background:

• The foundational 1996 BMJ article established evidence-based medicine (EbM).
• Key figures later advocated for evolving EbM leadership and ideas.
• EbM has since become a polarizing topic among clinicians and scientists globally.

Purpose of the Study:

• To reassess the core principles of evidence-based medicine (EbM).
• To identify enduring EbM concepts applicable to current trauma and orthopedic surgery.
• To pinpoint areas within EbM that require revision in light of contemporary advancements.

Main Methods:

• Review of seminal evidence-based medicine literature.
• Analysis of clinical and methodological developments in surgery.
• Comparative assessment of original EbM principles against current practices in trauma and orthopedic surgery.

Main Results:

• Core EbM concepts remain valid and essential for modern trauma and orthopedic surgery.
• Certain aspects of original EbM principles require adaptation due to recent advancements.
• The review identifies specific areas where EbM practice needs to evolve.

Conclusions:

• Evidence-based medicine (EbM) continues to be a cornerstone of effective trauma and orthopedic surgery.
• Adaptation of EbM principles is necessary to align with current clinical and methodological progress.
• Ongoing evaluation and revision of EbM are crucial for optimizing surgical patient care.