%0 PDF %T Is network meta-analysis as valid as standard pairwise meta-analysis? It all depends on the distribution of effect modifiers. %A Jansen, Jeroen P.; Naci, Huseyin. %D 2016-08-16T18:22:24.462Z %8 2016-08-16 %R http://localhost/files/7w62fm970 %X Background: In the last decade, network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials has been introduced as an extension of pairwise meta-analysis. The advantage of network meta-analysis over standard pairwise meta-analysis is that it facilitates indirect comparisons of multiple interventions that have not been studied in a head-to-head fashion. Although assumptions underlying pairwise meta-analyses are well understood, those concerning network meta-analyses are perceived to be more complex and prone to misinterpretation.; Keywords: Bias, Comparative effectiveness, Confounding, Effect modification, Indirect comparison, Meta-analysis, Mixed treatment comparison, Network meta-analysis, Randomized controlled trial, Systematic review.; Springer Open. %[ 2018-10-11 %9 Text %~ Tufts Digital Library %W Institution