Basic concepts in research methodology and biostatistics for head and neck oncologists

Research is an integral part of head and oncology. Understanding the methodology of research, either clinical or basic science, is important for an oncologist involved in such projects. It is equally essential for a head and neck surgeon, radiation, or medical oncologist to have a working knowledge of the topic so that he/she could be familiar with the current research, articles and latest developments in the field. This article is a primer in Research methodology and Biostatistics, giving a summary of the basic concepts in the study design, measures of treatment effects, hypothesis testing, diagnostic tests, assessment of outcomes, and statistical tests.