Measuring inconsistency in meta-analyses.

Higgins, Julian P T; Thompson, Simon G; Deeks, Jonathan J; Altman, Douglas G · BMJ · 2003

review · Level V

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Abstract

Cochrane Reviews have recently started including the quantity <i>I</i><sup>2</sup> to help readers assess the consistency of the results of studies in meta-analyses. What does this new quantity mean, and why is assessment of heterogeneity so important to clinical practice?

Medical subject headings