Bmc Med Res Methodol
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Meta-analysis is often considered to be a simple way to summarize the existing literature. In this paper we describe how a meta-analysis resembles a conventional study, requiring a written protocol with design elements that parallel those of a record review. ⋯ Meta-analysis can be a very useful method to summarize data across many studies, but it requires careful thought, planning and implementation.
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Bmc Med Res Methodol · Jan 2001
ReviewUsing evidence from different sources: an example using paracetamol 1000 mg plus codeine 60 mg.
Meta-analysis usually restricts the information pooled, for instance using only randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials. This neglects other types of high quality information. This review explores using different information for the combination of paracetamol 1000 mg and codeine 60 mg in acute postoperative pain. ⋯ Different designs of high quality trials can be used to support limited information used in meta-analysis without recourse to low quality trials that might be biased.
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Bmc Med Res Methodol · Jan 2001
The CONSORT statement: revised recommendations for improving the quality of reports of parallel group randomized trials.
To comprehend the results of a randomized controlled trial (RCT), readers must understand its design, conduct, analysis and interpretation. That goal can only be achieved through complete transparency from authors. Despite several decades of educational efforts, the reporting of RCTs needs improvement. ⋯ The diagram explicitly includes the number of participants, for each intervention group, included in the primary data analysis. Inclusion of these numbers allows the reader to judge whether the authors have performed an intention-to-treat analysis. In sum, the CONSORT statement is intended to improve the reporting of an RCT, enabling readers to understand a trial's conduct and to assess the validity of its results.
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Bmc Med Res Methodol · Jan 2001
Reporting of conflicts of interest in guidelines of preventive and therapeutic interventions.
Guidelines published in major medical journals are very influential in determining clinical practice. It would be essential to evaluate whether conflicts of interests are disclosed in these publications. We evaluated the reporting of conflicts of interest and the factors that may affect such disclosure in a sample of 191 guidelines on therapeutic and/or preventive measures published in 6 major clinical journals (Annals of Internal Medicine, BMJ, JAMA, Lancet, New England Journal of Medicine, Pediatrics) in 1979, 1984, 1989, 1994 and 1999. ⋯ Despite some recent improvement, reporting of conflicts of interest in clinical guidelines published in influential journals is largely neglected.