Primer on systematic review and meta-analysis

Methods Mol Biol. 2009:473:217-33. doi: 10.1007/978-1-59745-385-1_13.

Abstract

A systematic review uses an explicitly defined process to comprehensively identify all studies pertaining to a specific focused question, appraise the methods of the studies, summarize the results, identify reasons for different findings across studies, and cite limitations of current knowledge. Meta-analyses usually combine aggregate-level data reported in each primary study, which may provide a more precise estimate of the "true effect" than any individual study. However, the conclusions may be limited by between-trial heterogeneity, publication bias, or deficits in the conduct or reporting of individual primary studies.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Clinical Trials as Topic
  • Evidence-Based Medicine
  • Humans
  • Meta-Analysis as Topic*
  • Research Design
  • Review Literature as Topic*