Systematic reviews and meta-analysis: studies of studies

J Wound Ostomy Continence Nurs. 2008 May-Jun;35(3):258-65. doi: 10.1097/01.WON.0000319122.76112.23.

Abstract

Systematic reviews are designed to answer a focused clinical question. They employ a predetermined explicit methodology to comprehensively search for, select, appraise, and analyze studies. Meta-analysis is the statistical pooling of the results of studies that are part of a systematic review. Systematic reviews are research studies and, like other studies, they need to be based on a structured and valid methodology and take measures to minimize bias. High-quality systematic reviews can be powerful tools to support clinical decision-making, as well as summarize current knowledge in relation to an area of research interest. This article describes the methodology that should be used when doing a systematic review, presents guidelines for reporting the review, and provides a guideline for critically appraising published reviews.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Bias
  • Data Collection
  • Data Interpretation, Statistical
  • Databases, Bibliographic
  • Decision Support Systems, Clinical
  • Evidence-Based Medicine
  • Guidelines as Topic
  • Humans
  • MEDLINE
  • Meta-Analysis as Topic*
  • Research Design* / standards
  • Review Literature as Topic*