What does a systematic review aim to achieve?

A systematic review aims to collate evidence addressing a specific research question by comprehensively gathering, evaluating, and synthesizing all relevant studies on that topic. This process involves a structured methodology to ensure that the review is exhaustive and minimizes bias, thereby providing a rigorous assessment of the available evidence.

This approach allows researchers and practitioners to make informed decisions based on a thorough understanding of what current studies have found, rather than relying on isolated studies or anecdotal evidence. Systematic reviews contribute to the body of knowledge by highlighting trends, gaps, and consensus in research, ultimately guiding clinical practice and future research directions.