What does a narrative review provide?

A narrative review is designed to summarize and synthesize the existing body of literature on a particular topic, providing a comprehensive overview of the consensus among researchers and clinicians. This type of review typically discusses findings from various studies, highlights differing viewpoints, and may offer insights into the implications of those findings for clinical practice.

In contrast to systematic reviews, which adhere to strict methodologies to gather and evaluate data, narrative reviews are more flexible in their approach. They focus on qualitative synthesis rather than quantitative analysis, allowing for a broader context to be presented. By summarizing the consensus on a clinical topic, a narrative review helps practitioners and researchers understand what is known, what is debated, and what areas may need further exploration within that field.

Therefore, the summary of consensus on a clinical topic accurately captures the essence of what a narrative review seeks to provide.