Streamline Your Systematic Review with PRISMA Flow Diagram

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. What is the PRISMA Flow Diagram?
3. Versions of the PRISMA Flow Diagram
4. Identification: Studies via Databases and Registers
   • Reporting the Number of Records
   • Removal of Duplicate Records
   • Records Removed for Other Reasons
5. Screening: Title and Abstract Screening
   • Records that Need to be Screened
   • Exclusion Based on Title and Abstract Screening
   • Exclusion Reasons
6. Full Text Screening
   • Records Not Retrieved
   • Exclusion Reasons in Full Text Screening
   • Included Studies
7. Other Searching Methods
   • HAND Searching
   • Citation Searching
   • Assessment of Eligibility
8. Additional Studies Included
9. Summary of the PRISMA Flow Diagram
10. Conclusion

The PRISMA Flow Diagram: Streamlining Systematic Reviews

Systematic reviews play a crucial role in synthesizing scientific evidence and informing decision-making processes. However, conducting a systematic review can be a complex and time-consuming task. To address this challenge, the PRISMA Statement provides guidelines and recommendations for transparent reporting of systematic reviews. One essential component of the PRISMA Statement is the PRISMA Flow Diagram, which visually represents the flow of studies through the review process.

What is the PRISMA Flow Diagram?

The PRISMA Flow Diagram is a graphical representation that outlines the various stages of a systematic review, from the identification of Relevant studies to the inclusion of studies in the final review. It serves as a roadmap for researchers and allows readers to assess the transparency and rigor of the review process.

Versions of the PRISMA Flow Diagram

The PRISMA Flow Diagram is available in four different versions, depending on whether it is a new systematic review or an updated review, and the sources searched. For this article, we will focus on the version for new systematic reviews that include searches of databases, registers, and other sources.

Identification: Studies via Databases and Registers

The first stage of the PRISMA Flow Diagram is the identification of studies through databases and registers. Researchers are required to report the number of records identified from each database or register searched, rather than the total number across all databases and registers. This level of Detail ensures transparency and allows for the reproducibility of the review process.

During the identification stage, duplicate records are removed through deduplication processes. This can be done manually or by using automation tools. If any records are removed for reasons other than duplication, such as inconsistencies or irrelevant content, those records should also be documented.

Screening: Title and Abstract Screening

After the identification stage, the next step is title and abstract screening. This involves reviewing the titles and abstracts of the identified records to determine their relevance to the research question. Based on this screening, the number of records that need to be screened is determined.

During title and abstract screening, records that do not meet the inclusion criteria or are clearly irrelevant to the research question are excluded. It is important to note the reasons for exclusion, as this provides transparency and helps in the assessment of the review process.

Full Text Screening

Following title and abstract screening, the remaining records undergo full text screening. This involves retrieving the full text of the selected records and further assessing their eligibility for inclusion in the review. Some records may not be retrievable, either due to access limitations or unavailability of the full text. These records should be noted separately.

During full text screening, records are excluded based on eligibility criteria, such as study design, population, or intervention. The reasons for exclusion should be clearly stated to maintain transparency in the review process. However, for the purpose of the PRISMA Flow Diagram, only the numbers of records excluded for specific reasons are reported.

Other Searching Methods

In addition to searching databases and registers, it is recommended to employ other searching methods, such as hand searching and citation searching. Hand searching involves manually searching relevant sources, such as conference proceedings or specific journals. Citation searching involves reviewing the reference lists of included studies to identify additional relevant records.

The records obtained through other searching methods go through a similar process of assessment for eligibility and inclusion, as described in the screening stages. The reasons for exclusion should be documented, and the final number of included studies should be updated accordingly.

Additional Studies Included

Sometimes, during the review process, researchers may come across additional studies that meet the inclusion criteria and were not identified through the initial searching methods. These studies should be included in the final count of included studies and noted separately in the PRISMA Flow Diagram.

Summary of the PRISMA Flow Diagram

In summary, the PRISMA Flow Diagram provides a systematic and transparent representation of the review process. It starts with the identification of studies through databases and registers, followed by title and abstract screening, full text screening, and the inclusion of studies. Other searching methods and additional studies found along the way are also accounted for. By following the guidelines of the PRISMA Flow Diagram, researchers ensure the reproducibility and transparency of their systematic reviews.

Conclusion

The PRISMA Flow Diagram is a valuable tool for researchers conducting systematic reviews. It helps structure the review process, ensures transparency in reporting, and allows readers to grasp the flow of studies through various stages. By adhering to the guidelines of the PRISMA Statement and utilizing the PRISMA Flow Diagram, researchers can improve the quality and reliability of their systematic reviews.

Highlights:

• The PRISMA Flow Diagram is a visual representation of the systematic review process.
• It helps researchers and readers assess the transparency and rigor of the review process.
• The diagram includes stages such as identification, screening, and inclusion of studies.
• Researchers should report the number of records identified from each database or register searched.
• Deduplication of records should be done, and reasons for removal should be documented.
• Title and abstract screening and full text screening are crucial stages for selecting relevant studies.
• Exclusion reasons should be clearly stated to maintain transparency.
• Other searching methods, such as hand searching and citation searching, should be employed.
• Additional studies found during the review process should be included and documented separately.
• By following the PRISMA Flow Diagram, researchers ensure transparency and reproducibility in their systematic reviews.

FAQ:

Q: Can the PRISMA Flow Diagram be modified to suit specific research needs? A: While the general structure of the PRISMA Flow Diagram should be followed, researchers can adapt it to fit their specific research protocols as long as the essential components are included.

Q: Is the PRISMA Flow Diagram applicable to all types of systematic reviews? A: Yes, the PRISMA Flow Diagram can be used for all types of systematic reviews, regardless of the research question or study design.

Q: Can the PRISMA Flow Diagram be used for other types of literature reviews? A: The PRISMA Flow Diagram is specifically designed for systematic reviews. For other types of literature reviews, alternative diagrams or frameworks may be more appropriate.

Q: Is it necessary to include hand searching and citation searching in a systematic review? A: While not mandatory, including additional searching methods like hand searching and citation searching can enhance the comprehensiveness of the review and increase the chances of identifying all relevant studies.

Q: Is there a specific software or tool to Create the PRISMA Flow Diagram? A: There are various software options, such as Microsoft Word or graphic design tools, that can be used to create the PRISMA Flow Diagram. Researchers can choose the one that best suits their needs and expertise.