A framework for prospective, adaptive meta-analysis (FAME) of aggregate data from randomised trials

Tierney, Jayne F. and Fisher, David J. and Vale, Claire L. and Burdett, Sarah and Rydzewska, Larysa H. and Rogozińska, Ewelina and Godolphin, Peter J. and White, Ian R. and Parmar, Mahesh K. B. (2021) A framework for prospective, adaptive meta-analysis (FAME) of aggregate data from randomised trials. PLOS Medicine, 18 (5). e1003629. ISSN 1549-1676

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Abstract

Background
The vast majority of systematic reviews are planned retrospectively, once most eligible trials have completed and reported, and are based on aggregate data that can be extracted from publications. Prior knowledge of trial results can introduce bias into both review and meta-analysis methods, and the omission of unpublished data can lead to reporting biases. We present a collaborative framework for prospective, adaptive meta-analysis (FAME) of aggregate data to provide results that are less prone to bias. Also, with FAME, we monitor how evidence from trials is accumulating, to anticipate the earliest opportunity for a potentially definitive meta-analysis.

Methodology
We developed and piloted FAME alongside 4 systematic reviews in prostate cancer, which allowed us to refine the key principles. These are to: (1) start the systematic review process early, while trials are ongoing or yet to report; (2) liaise with trial investigators to develop a detailed picture of all eligible trials; (3) prospectively assess the earliest possible timing for reliable meta-analysis based on the accumulating aggregate data; (4) develop and register (or publish) the systematic review protocol before trials produce results and seek appropriate aggregate data; (5) interpret meta-analysis results taking account of both available and unavailable data; and (6) assess the value of updating the systematic review and meta-analysis. These principles are illustrated via a hypothetical review and their application to 3 published systematic reviews.

Conclusions
FAME can reduce the potential for bias, and produce more timely, thorough and reliable systematic reviews of aggregate data.

Item Type: Article
Subjects: SCI Archives > Medical Science
Depositing User: Managing Editor
Date Deposited: 27 Jan 2023 05:13
Last Modified: 01 Aug 2024 05:04
URI: http://science.classicopenlibrary.com/id/eprint/446

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