Article type
Year
Abstract
Objectives:
• To introduce key issues in the use of indirect comparisons in Cochrane reviews, including the identification of an appropriate question, the construction of a network map, and the decision of whether an intervention review or an overview is the better format.
• To discuss methodological considerations when undertaking such reviews.
Description:
Indirect comparisons can be useful in the synthesis of evidence on comparative effectiveness, particularly when the evidence from head-to-head trials is lacking or insufficient. A variety of methods are available, ranging from simple narrative methods to formal network meta-analysis. This is the first of two related workshops. It will focus on non-statistical aspects and will draw upon the results of a special meeting on this topic organized by the Comparing Multiple Interventions Methods Group in April 2012. We will introduce the concept of indirect comparison and describe the construction of a network of interventions. We will discuss appropriate questions for a review involving indirect comparisons and present a roadmap for deciding whether an intervention review or overview fits best. Lastly, we will discuss methodological considerations when undertaking such reviews. We will encourage participants to share their experiences and perspectives on this rapidly developing area of methodology.
• To introduce key issues in the use of indirect comparisons in Cochrane reviews, including the identification of an appropriate question, the construction of a network map, and the decision of whether an intervention review or an overview is the better format.
• To discuss methodological considerations when undertaking such reviews.
Description:
Indirect comparisons can be useful in the synthesis of evidence on comparative effectiveness, particularly when the evidence from head-to-head trials is lacking or insufficient. A variety of methods are available, ranging from simple narrative methods to formal network meta-analysis. This is the first of two related workshops. It will focus on non-statistical aspects and will draw upon the results of a special meeting on this topic organized by the Comparing Multiple Interventions Methods Group in April 2012. We will introduce the concept of indirect comparison and describe the construction of a network of interventions. We will discuss appropriate questions for a review involving indirect comparisons and present a roadmap for deciding whether an intervention review or overview fits best. Lastly, we will discuss methodological considerations when undertaking such reviews. We will encourage participants to share their experiences and perspectives on this rapidly developing area of methodology.