How Much Do Guidelines in Thoracic Surgery Influence Our Daily Practice? – A Review of the Current Routine

Review Article

Abstract

Guidelines are formulated based on the results of randomised clinical trials, other non-randomized studies, and expert opinions (i.e., the opinions of most guideline committees). A randomised, multicenter, controlled trial is the ideal study to determine a patient population's mean values. However, some diseases and populations do not lend themselves easily to this format, and therefore, studies with less stringent design and enrollment criteria are often used. The latest guidelines have more reliable data and distinct subgroups and carry a higher risk of misinterpreting results than older models. Guidelines are part of a continuous educational program to facilitate a more homogeneous approach to all patients with the same disease, reduce inappropriate and unnecessary testing, ineffective treatments, and health costs, and ultimately improve care. As a result, guidelines are allegiant. The surgeon should question why and how this guideline was prepared, who supported its creation, who is on its organisation committee, and what it represents. Within the scope of this review, recommendations to improve the guidelines will be presented.