Structured discussion Samuel Parry MD Purpose of discussion

Structured discussion Samuel Parry, MD

Purpose of discussion section • NOT to “sell” the paper • Rather, should be a dispassionate examination of the evidence

Discussion as part of the scientific method Observe Ask questions Formulate hypothesis DISCUSSION Evaluate outcome Test hypothesis Hypothesis supported? Conduct experiments No Yes Design tests Analyze data New topic

Introduction and Discussion Introduction presents information from the larger picture to your specific question Discussion presents information from the answer to your specific question to the larger picture

Outline for discussion section • • • Statement of principal findings Strengths and weaknesses Comparison to other studies Meaning of the study Unanswered questions and future research Docherty M and Smith R, BMJ 1999 Thornton J, BJOG 2003

Outline for discussion section • Statement of principal findings – “We have shown that the ab allele causes xyz disease. ” – “We have shown that the ab allele appears to be associated with xyz disease. ” Docherty M and Smith R, BMJ 1999 Thornton J, BJOG 2003

Outline for discussion section • Strengths and weaknesses – Equal emphasis given to both • Comparison to other studies – Strengths and weaknesses – Differences in results – Minimize speculation Docherty M and Smith R, BMJ 1999 Thornton J, BJOG 2003

Outline for discussion section • Meaning of the study (be cautious!) – Implications for clinicians – Possible mechanisms – Do NOT introduce new results • Unanswered questions and future research Docherty M and Smith R, BMJ 1999 Thornton J, BJOG 2003