Sec.2-Ch.2-Subsec.1： Mastering Network Meta-Analysis with R
From Statistical Theory to Publication-Ready Visualizations Using the Netmeta Package
With the continuous development of medical research, traditional meta-analysis can no longer fully meet the needs of clinical decision-making. Network Meta-Analysis (NMA), as an emerging statistical method, enables comprehensive comparisons among multiple treatment options and provides more reliable evidence for researchers and clinicians. By simultaneously incorporating both direct and indirect comparisons, NMA makes full use of existing study data and supports the identification of optimal treatment strategies for patients. This article introduces the fundamental concepts, statistical methods, practical applications, and the significance of NMA in healthcare decision-making.
I. Understanding Network Meta-Analysis
1. Basic Concept of Network Meta-Analysis
Network Meta-Analysis (NMA) is an advanced statistical technique designed to evaluate the effectiveness of multiple treatment options simultaneously. Unlike traditional meta-analysis, which typically compares only two interventions, NMA allows comparisons across multiple treatments within a single analytical framework. This method was developed to address the challenge clinicians face when choosing among several available therapies.
In many clinical scenarios, physicians must select among several effective treatments. Traditional meta-analysis provides limited information because it cannot integrate all possible treatment options. NMA overcomes this limitation by synthesizing results from multiple studies to identify the most effective intervention and support evidence-based clinical decision-making.
