How to interpret meta-analysis models: Fixed effect and random effects meta-analyses

Abstract

This section of the journal is aimed at providing the essential information readers should know about the topics that are addressed in the 'Statistics in practice' paper published in the same issue of the journal. This stand-alone section has to be seen as an articulated summary of the main notions clinicians have to know about some basic concepts in statistics, which may be useful for their evidence-based practice. After going through these notes, readers are encouraged to read the 'Statistics in practice' articles. Of course, we welcome any feedback from you (via email or Twitter) about this!.