[Differences between medical recommendations based on Evidence-Based Medicine (EBM) and expert consensus]

The article compares recommendations based on Evidence-Based Medicine (EBM) and expert consensus. EBM utilizes scientific evidence from clinical trials to formulate objective recommendations, while expert consensus relies on the experience of recognized practitioners in the field of clinical trials, often, but not always, in the absence of sufficient data. EBM follows a systematic and rigorous methodology and provides a clear-cut classification, whereas consensus approaches are more subjective and less rigorous, even if also based on the results already available. While EBM recommendations (also called guidelines) are viewed as more transparent and verifiable, consensus report can provide useful insights where data are still scarce. Both approaches are complementary and essential for improving the quality of medical care.