Is Evidence-Based Orthopedic Traumatology Possible in the Low-Resource Environment?

Abstract

Orthopedic practice is challenged by lower levels of evidence to support clinical decision-making. In austere environments, the generalizability of published research findings may be inappropriate. Surgeons and clinical investigators in low- and middle-income countries as well as those practicing orthopedics in austere environments should be familiar with the concept of evidence-based medicine in order to better understand which evidence should guide their clinical practice. Clinical expertise, an appreciation of the hierarchy of evidence, as well as patient preferences all play crucial roles in evidence-based practice. In this chapter, these principles will be highlighted as well as their application to the implementation of clinical research in austere environments.