how would you test the efficacy of one surgical technique over another?

Question

Mock medicine interview at school, all answers would be appreciated. Thanks xXx

Answer 1

Time taken
Level of anaesthesia required
Level of invasion
Health & safety aspects
Infection control

I think it depends on what sort of efficacy you are talking about. For instance an open procedure will often be quicker than laparoscopic surgery, but will leave the patient open to a higher risk of infection and will leave a larger area of scarring.

HTH and good luck

Foxbah ;-)

Answer 2

In many medical schools and teaching hospitals, not only are the procedures pored over in theory, they are tested out as well in the physical arena. As theories develop and techniques change, so will the ways in which procedure is best for the patient. Again, it is usually a decision based on patient history as well as known patient risk factors.

Answer 3

You would look at the outcome criteria. What is it that works best for the patient; least invasive, least likely to cause infection, etc.

Answer 4

By using a peer-reviewed, double-blind study

Answer 5

survival!