Evolution of heterogeneity (I2) estimates and their 95% confidence intervals in large meta-analyses

Ref ID 544
First Author K. Thorlund
Journal PLOS ONE
Year Of Publishing 2012
URL https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22848355/
Keywords Cochrane
Heterogeneity
General medical
Problem(s) Inadequate analysis of heterogeneity
Number of systematic reviews included 16
Summary of Findings In 10 of the 16 meta-analyses, the I squared estimates fluctuated more than 40% over time. In 3 of the 16 meta-analyses, the 95% confidence intervals temporarily did not include the final I squared estimate. I squared estimates are likely to incur considerable fluctuations when a meta-analysis includes less than roughly 500 events and less than 15 trials.
Did the article find that the problem(s) led to qualitative changes in interpretation of the results? Not Applicable
Are the methods of the article described in enough detail to replicate the study? Yes