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A sensitivity analysis for publication bias in systematic reviews

2001; SAGE Publishing; Volume: 10; Issue: 4 Linguagem: Inglês

10.1177/096228020101000402

1477-0334

J. B. Copas, Jian Qing Shi,

Statistical Methods in Clinical Trials

There is no simple method of correcting for publication bias in systematic reviews. We suggest a sensitivity analysis in which different patterns of selection bias can be tested against the fit to the funnel plot. Publication bias leads to lower values, and greater uncertainty, in treatment effect estimates. Two examples are discussed. An appendix lists the S-plus code needed for carrying out the analysis.