The asymmetrical funnel plot indicates bias, including:
- Selective reporting – The studies with negative result will be ingnored for reporting in a funnel plot.
- True heterogeneity – Heterogenieity in study characteristics and methodology can lead to assymetry.
- Publication bias – Some studies with small size and non-significant result would be remain unpublished, can cause gap in the funnel plot.
An asymmetrical funnel plot indicates that the meta-analysis may exaggerate the intervention effect.
Q & A Forum
Meta Analysis
Q: What does an asymmetrical funnel plot propose?
The asymmetrical funnel plot indicates bias, including:
- Selective reporting – The studies with negative result will be ingnored for reporting in a funnel plot.
- True heterogeneity – Heterogenieity in study characteristics and methodology can lead to assymetry.
- Publication bias – Some studies with small size and non-significant result would be remain unpublished, can cause gap in the funnel plot.
An asymmetrical funnel plot indicates that the meta-analysis may exaggerate the intervention effect.
Refernce:
Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. (2011). 10.4.1 Funnel plots. The Cochrane Collaboration. Retrieved from
https://handbook-5-1.cochrane.org/chapter_10/10_4_1_funnel_plots.htm