Systematic reviews: searching the literature Presented by: Anne Young 13 August 2014

Definition of a Systematic Review  “A systematic review [SR] is a review of a clearly formulated question that uses systematic and explicit methods to identify, select, and critically appraise relevant research, and to collect and analyze data from the studies that are included in the review. Statistical methods (meta-analysis) may or may not be used to analyze and summarize the results of the included studies.”  PRISMA: Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta- Analyses. PRISMA Statement: statement.org/usage.htm Accessed 12 August August 2014Systematic Reviews

Elements of a systematic search  Formulate a clearly articulated research question  Define eligibility criteria  Develop a plan for your search (including search terms, sources, limits)  Keep detailed records of the searches  Use software such as Endnote to store and organise your references  Set up alerts to new publications Note: When writing a systematic review you will need to document: –Methods - the literature search and the full electronic search strategy of at least one database –Results - a flow chart outlining the number of studies retrieved, reviewed, excluded and included e.g. PRISMA 2009 Flow Diagram: 13 August 2014Systematic Reviews

13 August 2014Systematic Reviews

13 August 2014Systematic Reviews

13 August 2014Systematic Reviews

Sample list of search terms 13 August 2014Systematic Reviews

Search method example - Cochrane Library ( ) “ Exercise for improving outcomes after osteoporotic vertebral fracture” by Lora M Giangregorio, Norma J MacIntyre, Lehana Thabane, Carly J Skidmore and Alexandra Papaioannou Online Publication Date: January August 2014Systematic Reviews

13 August 2014Systematic Reviews A proximity indicator A truncated keyword (tw = from title or abstract field) An exploded subject heading Section of the sample Medline search strategy in Appendix 1