A quality-effects model for meta-analysis

Epidemiology. 2008 Jan;19(1):94-100. doi: 10.1097/EDE.0b013e31815c24e7.

Abstract

We introduce a quality-effects approach that combines evidence from a series of trials comparing 2 interventions. This approach incorporates the heterogeneity of effects in the analysis of the overall interventional efficacy. However, unlike the random-effects model based on observed between-trial heterogeneity, we suggest adjustment based on measured methodological heterogeneity between studies. We propose a simple noniterative procedure for computing the combined effect size under this model and suggest that this could represent a more convincing alternative to the random effects model.

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Meta-Analysis as Topic*
  • Models, Statistical*
  • Risk