An Orthotics and Prosthetics Company Conducts a Single-Blind, Randomized, Parallel

question 527

Multiple Choice

An orthotics and prosthetics company conducts a single-blind, randomized, parallel group trial to investigate the effects of custom foot orthoses with motion control shoes versus the effects of motion control shoes alone in individuals with patellofemoral joint osteoarthritis.  Eligible subjects are randomized to receive either custom foot orthoses with motion control shoes or motion control shoes alone, to be worn for 4 months.  A significant number of patients are lost to follow-up or are noncompliant to the assigned intervention during the study.  However, results for the patients who completed the protocol are encouraging.  Which of the following techniques is most appropriate to estimate the real effect of custom foot orthoses in the population?

• A)As-treated analysis
• B)Intention-to-treat analysis
• C)Noninferiority analysis
• D)Per-protocol analysis
• E)Stratified analysis

---

Definitions:

Formal Rationality

A concept in sociology and economics referring to the deliberate and methodical calculation of the most efficient means to achieve a given goal, irrespective of the objective's value or consequence.

Traditional Authority

A form of leadership where power is legitimized by heritage, cultural norms, and historical precedents rather than legal, rational, or electoral means.

Feudalism

A socio-economic system in medieval Europe where land was held by nobles in exchange for military service, and vassals were tenants of the nobles, while serfs worked the land.

Patrimonialism

A form of governance or organization where all power is held by a single ruler or authority, often based on traditional or familial ties.