Introduction to meta-analysis: basic ideas for novices – Part 1

Article type
Authors
Beyene J1
1McMaster University, Canada
Abstract
Objective:

The Cochrane Statistical Methods Group has developed a series of workshops addressing statistical guidelines as formulated in the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. This workshop will cover the basic ideas of meta-analysis at an accessible level.

Description:

Topics to be covered include: a) What is a meta-analysis? b)What is a ‘forest plot’? c) What are ‘odds ratios’, ‘risk ratios’ and ‘risk differences’? d) What is heterogeneity? e) What do ‘fixed-effect’ and ‘random-effects’ mean? The emphasis of the workshop will be on obtaining a broad understanding of the differences between the various methods available in RevMan, with advice on which might be used when, and why, and what the results mean.