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Evidence-Based Medicine: Meta-Analyses & Systematic Reviews

Definitions

Meta-Analyses

A meta-analysis will thoroughly examine a number of valid studies on a topic and combine the results using accepted statistical methodology as if they were from one large study. Some clinicians put meta-analysis at the top of the pyramid because part of the methodology includes critical appraisal of the selected RCTs for analysis.

Systematic Reviews

Systematic reviews usually focus on a clinical topic and answer a specific question. An extensive literature search is conducted to identify all studies with sound methodology. The studies are reviewed, assessed, and the results are summarized according to the predetermined criteria of the review question.

Evidence Syntheses

Authors of critically-appraised topics evaluate and synthesize multiple research studies, so that practitioners may more readily determine if the evidence is valid and reliable, and whether they can apply it to their own practice.

Article Synopses

Authors of critically-appraised individual articles evaluate and synopsize individual research studies so that practitioners may more readily determine if the evidence is valid and reliable, and whether they can apply it to their own practice.

Metasearch Sites

Search for Evidence

Intro to Systematic Reviews & Meta-Analyses

Critical Appraisal Tools

Joanna Brigs Institute's critical appraisal tools assist in assessing the trustworthiness, relevance and results of published papers.

Other Evidence Sites