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Reporting of results from network meta-analyses: methodological systematic review
Aïda Bafeta1, Ludovic Trinquart, Raphaèle Seror
1Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Centre d'Epidémiologie Clinique, INSERM U1153, Hôpital Hôtel-Dieu, 75004 Paris, France.
BMJ (Clinical Research Ed.)
|March 13, 2014
Summary
Reporting of network meta-analyses is inconsistent, with most studies failing to describe the network or effect sizes. Developing clear reporting guidelines is crucial for accurate interpretation of these complex analyses.
Area of Science:
- Medical research methodology
- Evidence synthesis
- Biostatistics
Background:
- Network meta-analysis (NMA) allows simultaneous comparison of multiple treatments.
- Effective reporting is essential for critical appraisal and reliable evidence synthesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically assess the reporting quality of published network meta-analyses.
- To identify common deficiencies in the reporting of NMA methodology and results.
Main Methods:
- Methodological systematic review of published network meta-analyses.
- Searched multiple databases (Cochrane, DARE, Medline, Embase) up to July 2012.
- Assessed reporting of network structure and effect sizes (direct, indirect, NMA).
Main Results:
- 121 NMAs were reviewed; 83% did not report network geometry.
- 40% omitted direct effect sizes, 89% indirect, and 36% NMA effect sizes.
- 98% lacked comprehensive reporting of network and effect size data, irrespective of journal or funding.
Conclusions:
- Network meta-analyses are heterogeneously reported in the literature.
- Significant gaps exist in reporting network structure and effect sizes.
- Development of standardized reporting guidelines is urgently needed.
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