Sensitivity analysis An analytical procedure to determine how the results of a study would change if the facts were different or different studies included. The probability that patients without a particular disease, condition or injury will test negative for the problem by a particular test. A measure of how confidently an observed difference between two or more groups can be attributed to the study interventions. The p value is the most commonly encountered way of reporting statistical significance. The methods assume that the study is free of bias.
Clinical significance is entirely independent from statistical significance.
A way of ensuring that the different groups in an experimental trial are balanced with respect to important factors which could effect outcome. In a diagnosis study, the range of clinical presentations and of relevant disease advancement exhibited by the subjects included in the study. Systematic overview A formal review of a focused clinical question based on a comprehensive search strategy and structured critical appraisal. U - User's Guide A guide to using literature that was developed by the evidence based medicine group from McMaster University in Canada. For further information, please click on McMaster link on main menu.