Systematic Review Guide

A systematic review attempts to identify, appraise and synthesize all the empirical evidence that meets pre-specified eligibility criteria to answer a specific research question. By combining data they improve the ability to study the consistency of results. Researchers conducting systematic reviews use explicit, systematic methods that are selected with a view aimed at minimizing bias, to produce more reliable findings to inform decision making and create reproducible research. (Source: Cochrane) It is secondary research because secondary research does not involve generating data or talking to human subjects. It does not require ethical approval. 

• Because of the methodology of systematic reviews, they can take 12-24 months to complete. 
• Generally, two or more individuals independently review each article separately to determine whether it meets inclusion criteria. Cochrane will not publish a review that is proposed to be undertaken by a single person. 
• Reviews of research literature using systematic and transparent methods .
• Goal: Meant to help inform practice, creating clinical guidelines for patient care.

What is a Systematic Review?

From: Higgins JPT, Green S (editors). Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions Version 5.1.0 [updated March 2011]. The Cochrane Collaboration, 2011. Available from handbook.cochrane.org.

Pros:

• Brings together best available evidence.
• Can determine causality.
• Utilizes results from RCTs.

Cons:

• Reporting quality varies.
• Time and resource-intensive.