Introduction

Vast numbers of clinical publications are printed in the surgical literature every year. Many are flawed and it is important that a surgeon trainee has the skills to examine critically research done by others. In addition, a surgeon should be able both to design and to complete an original study. Performing research can be arduous and time-consuming. However, surgical research is good for society as it advances medicine, it is good for patients as the clinical outcome is often improved for patients in clinical trials, and it is good for surgeons as it is a way of keeping track of personal clinical results. In addition, much clinical work is tedious and repetitive. Rigorous evaluation of even the simplest techniques and conditions can help to keep the surgical brain active throughout a long career and ensure a good outcome for the patient.

The earlier a surgeon develops skills in surgical research the better. The hardest trial to do, or article to write, is the first. The best way to develop a critical understanding of the research of others is to perform studies of your own. It is unlikely that the first piece written by any surgeon will be an earth shattering randomised trial. Starting small is often the best way.

This chapter contains all the information required to complete a randomised trial. Using it, a surgeon will be armed to write a surgical paper and to evaluate research carried out by others.