The term real-world experience refers to clinical observations and outcomes collected outside of randomized controlled trials (RCTs). It emphasizes data obtained from routine clinical practice, registries, or observational cohorts, and provides insights into how interventions perform in non-ideal, everyday settings.

• Reflects heterogeneous patient populations
• Includes variations in clinician practice
• Captures long-term outcomes and adherence patterns
• May uncover rare adverse effects or unanticipated benefits

While real-world data may lack the internal validity of RCTs, it contributes to external validity and generalizability, informing:

• Treatment effectiveness in diverse populations
• Decision-making in low-evidence scenarios
• Post-marketing surveillance of drugs and devices

⚠️ Real-world experience should complement—not replace—evidence from well-designed trials.

Example Usage:

“Real-world experience with 7T MRI in DBS reveals variability in protocol standardization and site-specific practices, unlike controlled environments.”