Introduction to systematic reviews and meta-analyses for exotic animal practitioners

Developing and conducting systematic reviews and meta-analyses is a complex process that requires many judgments and the input from a wide variety of stakeholders. This article presents an introduction on how to develop, conduct, and report these research studies. Veterinary clinicians should seek systematic reviews to address their research questions. Criteria for including meta-analyses in a systematic review are presented. However, before applying the findings of systematic reviews and meta-analyses to a particular patient, clinicians should weigh a variety of issues. The quality of the review is particularly important.