- Framework of problems / Rigourous
- Inadequate analysis of heterogeneity
- Cochrane vertebroplasty review misrepresented evidence for vertebroplasty with early intervention in severely affected patients
| Ref ID | 736 |
| First Author | W. Clark |
| Journal | BMJ EVIDENCE-BASED MEDICINE |
| Year Of Publishing | 2020 |
| URL | https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30852489/ |
| Keywords |
Cochrane Author Allegiance Influence Radiology |
| Problem(s) |
Weaknesses identified in some Cochrane reviews Flawed risk of bias undertaken Non-financial conflicts of interest of review authors Inadequate analysis of heterogeneity |
| Number of systematic reviews included | 1 |
| Summary of Findings | The authors of the discussion piece highlight several concerns over a revised Cochrane review of percutaneous vertebroplasty for osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture published in 2018. The authors highlight that the first author of the review is a member of an independent non-statutory committee (MSAC), which appraises new medical services proposed for public funding (under ‘Medicare’) who was excluded from committee involvement due to conflict of interest, but not from the Cochrane review. Medicare funding was previously removed based on trials by authors of this Cochrane review. The authors argue that their study which is included in the Cochrane review is both misrepresented in data extraction and appraised unfairly for risk of bias. |
| 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 |