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BMC Medical Research Methodology

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Open Access 01-12-2010 | Research article

Evidence at a glance: error matrix approach for overviewing available evidence

Authors: Frederik Keus, Jørn Wetterslev, Christian Gluud, Cornelis JHM van Laarhoven

Published in: BMC Medical Research Methodology | Issue 1/2010

Abstract

Background

Clinical evidence continues to expand and is increasingly difficult to overview. We aimed at conceptualizing a visual assessment tool, i.e., a matrix for overviewing studies and their data in order to assess the clinical evidence at a glance.

Methods

A four-step matrix was constructed using the three dimensions of systematic error, random error, and design error. Matrix step I ranks the identified studies according to the dimensions of systematic errors and random errors. Matrix step II orders the studies according to the design errors. Matrix step III assesses the three dimensions of errors in studies. Matrix step IV assesses the size and direction of the intervention effect.

Results

The application of this four-step matrix is illustrated with two examples: peri-operative beta-blockade initialized in relation to surgery versus placebo for major non-cardiac surgery, and antiarrhythmics for maintaining sinus rhythm after cardioversion of atrial fibrillation. When clinical evidence is deemed both internally and externally valid, the size of the intervention effect is to be assessed.

Conclusion

The error matrix provides an overview of the validity of the available evidence at a glance, and may assist in deciding which interventions to use in clinical practice.

Available only for authorised users

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The pre-publication history for this paper can be accessed here:http://www.biomedcentral.com/1471-2288/10/90/prepub

Title: Evidence at a glance: error matrix approach for overviewing available evidence
Authors: Frederik Keus
Jørn Wetterslev
Christian Gluud
Cornelis JHM van Laarhoven
Publication date: 01-12-2010
Publisher: BioMed Central
Published in: BMC Medical Research Methodology / Issue 1/2010
Electronic ISSN: 1471-2288
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-2288-10-90

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Evidence at a glance: error matrix approach for overviewing available evidence

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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