Overview
This lecture demonstrates how to create a PRISMA flow diagram, highlighting both Word-based and online Shiny app tools for systematic reviews.
Introduction to PRISMA Flow Diagram
- The PRISMA flow diagram visually tracks the study selection process in systematic reviews.
- PRISMA stands for Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses.
Creating PRISMA Diagrams Using Word
- PRISMA’s official website provides a Word template for the flow diagram.
- Users manually input numbers for searches, exclusions, and included studies.
- Editing the Word template can be tedious and may require customizing rows for multiple databases.
Using the PRISMA Shiny App
- The PRISMA Shiny app is a free online tool for generating flow diagrams via point-and-click.
- Access the app through the Evidence Synthesis Hackathon website.
- Users can include/exclude elements like registers and other searches based on their needs.
- Individual databases can be added and named, with numbers entered for each.
- The app updates the diagram in real time as information is entered.
Completing the Diagram
- Enter the number of records found, duplicates removed, excluded studies, and screening results.
- Enter the reasons for study exclusion at the full-text screening phase.
- After final numbers are input, the diagram is ready for download.
Exporting and Citing the Diagram
- The diagram can be downloaded in several formats, including PDF.
- The tool requests users to cite the source of the diagram.
Flexibility and Customization
- The app allows for adding or removing sections such as registers, previous studies, and other search methods.
- Customization supports different research fields and workflows.
Key Terms & Definitions
- PRISMA Flow Diagram — A chart that documents the process of identifying, screening, and including studies in a systematic review.
- Duplicate removal — The process of identifying and eliminating repeated records before screening.
- Shiny app — A web application framework for R that allows interactive data visualization.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Choose a method (Word document or Shiny app) to create your PRISMA flow diagram.
- Collect all study identification and screening numbers required for the diagram.
- If using the Shiny app, access it through the Evidence Synthesis Hackathon website and input your data.
- Download and cite your completed PRISMA diagram as required for your project.