Understanding the reliability of trial outcome measures: The example of angiographic results of surgical or endovascular treatments of aneurysms.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The reliability of outcome measures is of central importance in clinical research. Studies of reliability remain rare in the neurovascular field. METHODS: A narrative review of the history (1997-2021) of reporting angiographic results of the surgical or endovascular treatments of aneurysms serves to illustrate the importance of precisely defining outcome measures. We also review how the reliability of an angiographic classification system was studied. DISCUSSION: Outcome measures are commonly used without precise definitions. When definitions or classification systems exist, they are rarely verified for their reliability. Twenty-five years following its introduction, a classification of angiographic results of aneurysm treatments is still being studied and modified. CONCLUSION: The reliability of outcome measures should be made a research priority if we are to practice outcome-based medical or surgical care.