[Interpretation of systematic review articles and meta-analyses : Clinical trials in trauma surgery and orthopedics]

Clinical trials must be planned and interpreted in the context of current best clinical and scientific evidence, undoubtedly provided by systematic reviews and meta-analyses, especially Cochrane Reviews. While many clinicians feel overwhelmed by this complex data source, few visualElements (e.g., the traffic light system of the Cochrane risk of bias [RoB‑2] tool, forest plots, etc.), together with indices such as the I² heterogeneity statistic, allow for a quick appraisal of all critical and necessary qualitative and quantitative information. The effectiveness of different treatment options can indirectly be assessed by methodological advancements like network meta-analyses.Point estimates of percentages are insufficient to describe the utility and value of a proposed novel intervention, which, in orthopedic and trauma surgery, often represents a step innovation. 95% confidence intervals and the so-called fragility index are helpful in determining the ultimate patient benefit.