Background: The use of composite outcome measures (COM) in clinical trials is increasing. Whilst their use is associated with benefits, several limitations have been highlighted and there is limited literature exploring their use within critical care. The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the use of COM in high-impact critical care trials, and compare study parameters (including sample size, statistical significance, and consistency of effect estimates) in trials using composite versus non-composite outcomes.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFUnlabelled: Varying numbers of scans are required by different professional bodies before focused cardiac ultrasound (FCU) competence is assumed. It has been suggested that innovation in the assessment of FCU competence is needed and that competency assessment needs to be more individualized. We report our experience of how the use of sequential testing may help personalize the assessment of FCU competence.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFUnlabelled: Surgical intervention for acute appendicitis during pregnancy carries significant risk to both mother and foetus. The safety of Laparoscopic Appendicectomy in pregnancy has been a matter of debate among clinicians. We have critically reviewed the available published evidence in regards with this debate.
View Article and Find Full Text PDF