Impact of Retracted Randomized Controlled Trials on Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis: A Cross-Sectional Study

Article type
Authors
Zhou Q1, Shi Q1, Wang Z2, Lu S3, Chen Y4, Yang K4
1The First Clinical Medical School, Lanzhou University
2Evidence-Based Medicine Center, Lanzhou University
3School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China
4Evidence-Based Medicine Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University; WHO Collaborating Centre for Guideline Implementation and Knowledge Translation; Chinese GRADE Center; Cochrane China Network, Lanzhou
Abstract
Background: Randomized controlled trials(RCTs) are usually incorporated into systematic reviews and meta-analysis(SRs/MAs) to form the best decision evidence.In recent years, due to academic misconduct and other reasons, many RCTs have been retracted, how many retracted RCTs are included in the SR / MA, and how much impact it has on the SRs/MAs results, and how to avoid such research waste, it is worth pondering problem.

Objectives: To investigate the impact of retracted randomized controlled trials on systematic reviews and meta-analysis.

Methods: Electronic databases (including PubMed and Embase) and Retraction Watch were retrieved from their inception until March, 27 2020. We searched “Retracted, Retraction, Withdrawal, Withdrawn, Randomized Controlled Trial, placebo” words. Through citation searching of Web of Science database to find SRs/MAs that cited retracted randomized controlled trials. Finally, we will conduct sensitivity analysis for SRs/MAs to explore the impact of retracted randomized controlled trials.

Results: The results will be presented at the meeting.

Conclusions: The conclusions will be presented at the meeting.

Patient or healthcare consumer involvement: None.