Strengths and limitations of meta-analysis: Larger studies may be more reliable

Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials combines information from independent studies that address a similar question to provide more reliable estimates of treatment effects. At the present time, the methodology and usefulness of meta-analysis is under scrutiny. In the first part of this paper, we summarize the limitations of meta-analysis and make suggestions for improvements. In the second part, we illustrate strengths and limitations …