(Im)precise trial descriptions

Br J Anaesth. 2021 Dec;127(6):824-825. doi: 10.1016/j.bja.2021.09.013. Epub 2021 Oct 21.

Abstract

Terms such as prospective, interventional, and controlled are redundant in the context of randomised trials, and are therefore distracting. Pragmatic should probably be reserved for trials that intentionally control little except the exposure. The term pilot should be reserved for trials that were designated to a priori and registered as pilot trials, and have appropriate pilot outcomes. 'Pragmatic' and 'real-world' should not be inserted to excuse poor trial design; and similarly, 'pilot' should not be appended to excuse inadequate power.

Keywords: controlled trial; pilot study; pragmatic study; real-world study; title.

Publication types

  • Editorial

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Pilot Projects
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic*
  • Research Design*
  • Terminology as Topic*