Surgical outcomes research--a new paradigm for clinical research?
OBJECTIVE
To define outcomes research in terms of a paradigm, grouping six existing research methodologies.


BACKGROUND
Although outcomes research is becoming an increasingly popular area in clinical research, an accepted definition is difficult to find. The term 'outcomes research' is often used in the context of a research methodology.


METHODS
Topics in dinical research which have been termed 'outcomes research' are discussed including: databases, quality of life studies, effectiveness studies, economic evaluations, small-area rate variation analysis and volume outcome studies, as well as practice guideline development.


RESULTS
Outcomes research is not a research methodology in its own right, but a paradigm which groups existing methodologies, providing a structured approach to evaluating the outcomes which are most important to patients, society and those who pay for health care.
Tandan
V R
VR
Surgical Outcomes Research Centre, Department of Surgery, St Joseph's Hospital, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. tandanv@fhs.csu.mcmaster.ca
D002170:Canada; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D017063:Outcome Assessment, Health Care / Q000379:methods*; D011788:Quality of Life; D012106:Research / Q000639:trends; D012107:Research Design; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D013514:Surgical Procedures, Operative / Q000592:standards* / Q000639:trends