Evidence-Based Medicine: Approach and References Classification

Abstract

Evidence-based medicine (EBM) is the process of systematically reviewing, appraising, and applying the best research available to preserve the quality of patient care [1]. In short, the process is daunting, tedious, and, by definition, never-ending. We are reminded of Sisyphus’s eternal task of rolling a large boulder up an even larger hill only to watch the rock roll back down without ever reaching the summit [2]. We begin with two great advantages. First, the task is well defined—we need to only consider four (usually) small glands that reside (usually) in the human neck. Second, unlike Sisyphus, we need not carry the burden alone. While no single person possesses the ability, knowledge, time, or space to classify all present-day therapies, we may be able to accomplish a great deal if we work together.

I have neither the ability, knowledge, time, or space to classify all present-day therapies. All I feel capable of is a rough classification …

—AL Cochrane, 1971