Background: Cochrane Response is a Cochrane Innovations programme that aims to undertake commissioned reviews rapidly, to meet the specific needs (questions, issues and contexts) of those commissioning the review (e.g. policy makers and funders). A consortium, including representatives of the Cochrane Editorial Unit and Cochrane groups, have been working to develop standard methods, procedures and timelines for these reviews, while simultaneously undertaking our first commissioned reviews. Cochrane CRGs, Centres, Methods Groups and Fields have methods and content expertise, and knowledge of regional or disciplinary priorities that can be extremely valuable in the production of rapid reviews; and participation in Response reviews could provide an additional source of income for CRGs

Objectives: To discuss methods and procedures for undertaking Cochrane Response rapid reviews using a recently completed review on regionalization for pediatric surgery as an example. To discuss issues and limitations uncovered during the process and potential for involvement of Cochrane CRGs or other entities in future rapid reviews.

Conclusions: The methods developed for Cochrane Response have allowed us to complete our first review within a brief (10 week) time frame. The methods appear to be applicable to a wide range of questions and we anticipate taking on additional rapid review projects in future.