Demystifying trial networks and network meta-analysis
Demystifying trial networks and network meta-analysis
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DOI：
10.1136/bmj.f2914
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发表时间：
2013-05-14
影响因子：
105.7
通讯作者：
Ioannidis, John P. A.
中科院分区：
文献类型：
--
作者：
Mills, Edward J.;Thorlund, Kristian;Ioannidis, John P. A.
随机临床试验网络可以在网络荟萃分析的背景下进行评估，该程序允许推断可能已或可能未直接相互评估的干预措施的比较有效性。这种方法很快受到临床医生和指南决策者的欢迎。然而，人们对某些方法论方面知之甚少。在这里，我们解释网络的几何形状、统计和概念的异质性和不连贯性，以及数据合成的应用和解释中的挑战。这些概念对于理解网络元分析至关重要。
Networks of randomized clinical trials can be evaluated in the context of a network meta-analysis, a procedure that permits inferences into the comparative effectiveness of interventions that may or may not have been evaluated directly against each other. This approach is quickly gaining popularity among clinicians and guideline decision makers. However, certain methodological aspects are poorly understood. Here, we explain the geometry of a network, statistical and conceptual heterogeneity and incoherence, and challenges in the application and interpretation of data synthesis. These concepts are essential to make sense of a network meta-analysis.