Selection Bias Results in Misinterpretation of Randomized Controlled Trials on Arthroscopic Treatment of Patients With Knee Osteoarthritis

It can be safely said that we all have bias, to some degree or another, stemming largely from what we have been taught, and tempered or reinforced by our own experience. Realizing that, most researchers take great pains to minimize if not eliminate it. The prospective randomized controlled trial (especially when double-blinded) has often been touted as achieving this goal, especially in terms of avoiding selection bias. However, unless randomization is done properly, selection bias may still be present.