title: Meta-analysis: an introduction into a research process.
abstract: Various methods for statistical analysis of data are available to clinicians and researchers. Meta-analysis is a tool by which small, related studies are identified and, through systematic review, are combined into a common data pool for a single, larger population analysis. As with all statistical methods, there are indications and contraindications for the use of meta-analysis. Additionally, meta-analysis is dependent upon the quality of data applied, the bias of the test itself, and the interpretation of the results. This article will discuss these aspects of meta-analysis, including the history of its development and usage in the scientific community, basic terminology, and a relevant literature review.
authors.affiliation: Department of Advanced General Dentistry, University of Mississippi Medical Center School of Dentistry, Jackson, Mississippi, USA. hlivingston@sod.umsmed.edu
authors.forename: Mark
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Livingston
authors.forename: Judith
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Messura
authors.forename: Tracy
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Dellinger
authors.forename: Ray
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Holder
authors.forename: John
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Hyde
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D015201:Meta-Analysis as Topic; D008722:Methods; D009626:Terminology as Topic