Research article

Meta-analysis: Neither quick nor easy

Nancy G Berman¹ and Robert A Parker²

¹  Department of Pediatrics, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, 1000 West Carson Street, Torrance, CA, USA

²  Biometrics Center/E-GZ814, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Department of Medicine Harvard Medical School, 330 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA 02215

author email corresponding author email

BMC Medical Research Methodology 2002, 2:10doi:10.1186/1471-2288-2-10

Published:	9 August 2002

Abstract

Background

Meta-analysis is often considered to be a simple way to summarize the existing literature. In this paper we describe how a meta-analysis resembles a conventional study, requiring a written protocol with design elements that parallel those of a record review.

Methods

The paper provides a structure for creating a meta-analysis protocol. Some guidelines for measurement of the quality of papers are given. A brief overview of statistical considerations is included. Four papers are reviewed as examples. The examples generally followed the guidelines we specify in reporting the studies and results, but in some of the papers there was insufficient information on the meta-analysis process.

Conclusions

Meta-analysis can be a very useful method to summarize data across many studies, but it requires careful thought, planning and implementation.