

However, before starting work on a research question for a systematic review, it is very important to perform a mini-literature search to ensure that the question has not already been the subject of a systematic review. In addition, a focused review question is more likely to identify questions for future research

Also, a focused review question will more likely generate a clear message for the clinician/researcher and will more likely highlight the relevance of the work. Well-focussed review questions are more likely to get completed and result in a comprehensive review because they lead to better searches and clearer criteria for selection. The question should be precise and it should help identify studies to be included in the review. It is important to define the review question clearly. The three components to a successful systematic review and meta-analysis writing are: Steps to planning a systematic review and meta-analysis Writing a systematic review and meta-analysis may help define a researcher’s area of interest, as such reviews get published in high impact journal and gets a substantial number of citations.It can help mitigate the need for further trials.It enables the combination of findings from different studies which can highlight new findings that may be important for practice or policy.It can help highlight areas in a field where there is insufficient evidence and areas where further studies should focus on.It can help to end confusion in conflicting findings reported by individual studies that might have specific bias or errors.There are several reasons for performing a systematic review and meta-analysis: Why do we need a systematic review and meta-analysis? It involves the systematic identification, selection, synthesis and appraisal of primary research studies in order to develop a high-quality overview of a topic while answering a pre-specified research question.Ī meta-analysis is an advancement over systematic review and involves the use of mathematical and statistical approaches to summarise the findings of studies used for a systematic review. What is a systematic review and meta-analysis?Ī systematic review is defined by the Cochrane collaboration as “ a scientific process where all empirical evidence that fits pre-specified eligibility criteria are collated in order to answer a specific research question”. 2.2.2 Performing the search and screening.Steps to planning a systematic review and meta-analysis.Why do we need a systematic review and meta-analysis?.What is a systematic review and meta-analysis?.
