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A systematic review is a research method that aims to answer question(s) by analyzing studies meeting a specific criteria (Glasziou, Iwirg, Bain & Corditz, 2001).  Systematic reviews synthesize high quality empirical information to answer a given research question (The Cochrane Collaboration, n.d.). Conducting a systematic review involves following rigorous, predefined protocols that "minimise bias and ensure transparency" (Glanville & McCool, n.d.).

Features of a Systematic Review 

• Begins with a focused answerable clinical question (PICO framework) 
• Establishes pre-specified, explicit, and reproducible eligibility criteria 
• Uses comprehensive and exhaustive literature searches in multiple sources 
• Employs comprehensive analysis of quality and validity of findings 
• Reports collective interpretation of results 
• Requires 18 - 24 months to complete 
• Needs a team of experts - at least 3 

Learn more about Systematic Review 

• What is a Systematic Review? 
• Components of a Systematic Review
• Steps of a Systematic Review 
• Standards and Guidelines
• Designing the Protocol
• Systematic Review Tools
• Systematic Review Vs Meta Analysis