Submissions to Radiology. Our Top 10 List of Statistical Errors

摘要

Basic statistical concepts are the underpinnings of appropriate study design. In 2001, Radiology introduced systematic statistical review of all published manuscripts that contain statistical content. In 2002?04 Radiology published a series of articles regarding statistics and radiology (1?). As a series, these articles can be found by clicking on 揝tatistical Concept Series? on the Radiology Web site at http://radiology.rsnajnls.org/misc/collect_index.shtml. The articles were designed to provide readers of Radiology with an understanding of the basic concepts of statistics, probability, and scientific methods that are used in the medical literature. As stated by Dr Anthony Proto, when he introduced the Statistical Concept Series, 揙ne of the most common comments by our statistical reviewers is that authors have selected inappropriate statistical tests for the analysis of their data. We urge authors to consult with statisticians regarding the analysis of their data. It is particularly important that a study be designed and data be collected in a manner that will allow the study hypothesis to be adequately evaluated. Statistical consultation in the study-planning stages can help ensure success in this regard? (19).