Three highlights:
This project updates previous methodological studies conducted in 2015 and 2018 to inform: 1) updates to the PRISMA-NMA and PRISMA-ScR reporting guidelines, and 2) the creation of PRISMA-RR reporting guidelines.
The original PRISMA extensions (network meta-analysis and scoping reviews) do not include patients and public members as research partners. The valuable perspectives of these members will help guide how to report systematic reviews with network meta-analysis, scoping reviews, and rapid reviews.
We recently found that some parts of network meta-analyses were not fully reported when looked at in detail. Since the publication of the PRISMA-NMA extension, there have been many improvements in the methods used, which may need new reporting items. Similarly, PRISMA-ScR does not include important aspects regarding reporting methods.
What to look for next:
After the completion of the scoping reviews, we will conduct a multi-round online survey with relevant knowledge users to get their thoughts on what items should be included in the updated PRISMA extension guidelines. Then, we will host a virtual meeting with experts in the field to narrow down the list of reporting items. This will be followed by testing the guidelines and finalizing the PRISMA extensions. Finally, we will publish the scoping reviews and PRISMA extensions in a publicly available format. We will use dissemination strategies such as presentations at meetings and conferences, and knowledge exchange sessions. Our diverse research team, which includes journal editors, clinicians, policy makers, statisticians, methodologists, and patients and public partners, will participate in every stage of this project facilitating dissemination through their networks.