Statistical Errors in Clinical Studies

Statistics are an integral part of any scientific paper. Unfortunately, statistical errors are common, which can falsely legitimize data. As Song et al[1] noted “The inappropriate use of statistical analysis can lead to incorrect conclusions”. Paul Manske[2] in his editorial entitled: Lies, Damn Lies and Statistics (quote by British Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli, 1804–1881) noted that statistical analysis in scientific papers had acquired a shady reputation in part because it had been used to manipulate facts, rather than evaluate them which is embodied by the saying that “ Statistics will prove anything, even the truth" (author unknown).

Szabo[3] noted that statistics is all about data analysis. Application of the best statistical methodology to poor-quality data is analogous to claiming "the operation was a success but the patient died." Knowledge of the appropriate statistical test to apply in any given situation is important, but so is the ability to recognize common statistical errors.

• References

• 1 Song JW, Haas A, Chung KC. Applications of statistical tests in hand surgery. J Hand Surg 2009; 34 (10) 1872-1881
• 2 Manske PR. Lies, damn lies and statistics. J Hand Surg 1997; 22 (3) 375
• 3 Szabo RM. Statistical analysis as related to hand surgery. J Hand Surg 1997; 22 (3) 376-385
• 4 Altman DG, Bland JM. British Med Journal 1995; 311-485