We propose standardized definitions and criteria for documenting subjective results for clinical orthopedic studies in veterinary medicine. To our knowledge, no common terminology or basis for describing results in this manner has been published. This lack of standardization limits our abilities to communicate study results in a consistent manner, interpret data appropriately, and compare results across studies, centers, and techniques. An initial step toward addressing these deficiencies is to provide clear definitions and criteria for time frames of data collection, subjective outcomes, and complications. These definitions and criteria are recommended for use based on consensus among the authors who have experience and expertise in small animal and equine orthopedic clinical research. Our hope is that this terminology will be implemented so that data collection and reporting are more consistent and effective in veterinary orthopedic reports.
BACKGROUND
At least in the short term, dietary supplementation with fish oil omega-3 fatty acids resulted in an improvement in weight bearing in dogs with osteoarthritis.
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