Evidence on prognosis.

Abstract

In the clinical decision-making process, prognostic information gives physicians guidance regarding disease and treatment that can be passed along to patients. Using the clinical scenario of a type IIIB open tibial fracture as an example, this article focuses on how to search prognostic literature effectively and how to critically appraise prognostic studies. A well-built clinical question using the Patients, Intervention, Comparison, and Outcomes methodology helps plastic surgeons derive information from the vast resources in an effective and time-efficient manner. Subsequent critical appraisal of the collected studies is the essential step for identifying the most relevant high-quality evidence to provide the best prognostic information to guide patient decision-making.