Propensity Score Matching: Retrospective Randomization?

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    54 Scopus citations

    Abstract

    Randomized controlled trials are viewed as the optimal study design. In this commentary, we explore the strength of this design and its complexity. We also discuss some situations in which these trials are not possible, or not ethical, or not economical. In such situations, specifically, in retrospective studies, we should make every effort to recapitulate the rigor and strength of the randomized trial. However, we could be faced with an inherent indication bias in such a setting. Thus, we consider the tools available to address that bias. Specifically, we examine matching and introduce and explore a new tool: propensity score matching. This tool allows us to group subjects according to their propensity to be in a particular treatment group and, in so doing, to account for the indication bias.

    Original languageEnglish (US)
    Pages (from-to)417-420
    Number of pages4
    JournalJournal of Foot and Ankle Surgery
    Volume56
    Issue number2
    DOIs
    StatePublished - Mar 1 2017

    Keywords

    • indication bias
    • propensity score matching
    • randomized controlled trial

    ASJC Scopus subject areas

    • Surgery
    • Orthopedics and Sports Medicine

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