The play of chance.
Most randomized controlled trials are small relative to the clinical question they address, and chance causes more variability in the results of small trials. Thus, when small studies herald new treatment interventions, clinicians might wish to wait until the body of evidence is weighty and consistent enough to be convincing.
Collins
John
J
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. collinsj@auracom.com
D026881:Acupuncture / Q000379:methods*; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D003627:Data Interpretation, Statistical; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards; D005260:Female; D017408:Guidelines as Topic; D006801:Humans; D007247:Infertility, Female / Q000628:therapy*; D011247:Pregnancy; D011256:Pregnancy Outcome; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards; D027724:Reproductive Techniques, Assisted; D016896:Treatment Outcome