Research comes in many forms.
As new treatments are developed, doctors may try out that new treatment in a few carefully selected patients, having explained fully the new approach to the patients, and sought their formal consent. This is where research really gives us the chance to make advances based on solid information rather than merely on hope, fashion, or whatever else has to be used instead of real knowledge. First we define very carefully a scientific plan to compare the treatments. Then that plan has to be looked at very carefully by completely independent committees to ensure that the design is appropriate to answer the question, and that the trial conforms with appropriate ethical standards. Importantly they will also check that the potential patients will receive full information on the trial and its implications for their individual care.