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Search filters: choosing, using and abusing.

Julie Glanville.
Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, UK.

jmg1 doesnotexist@cochrane.org york.ac.uk


Objective: To discuss the various methods used to design search filters and other related quality issues, in order to enable more informed decisions about their use.

Summary: The identification of relevant studies for inclusion in systematic reviews is a key element of the systematic review process. Increasing numbers of search filters, designed to retrieve either specific study designs such as randomized controlled trials or diagnostic test accuracy studies, or research issues such as adverse events, are being designed and published. Many such filters are now incorporated into database search interfaces, such as the PubMed Clinical Queries. Search filters, however, vary in the quality of their design and thus their usefulness. Those wishing to use search filters need to be aware of issues of quality and suitability in order to make informed choices in the area of selecting and applying search filters.

This workshop will address identification of a wide range of search filters, drawing on the recently launched Search Filter Resource put together by the InterTASC Information Specialists' Sub-Group (ISSG) - the group of information professionals supporting research groups within England providing technology assessments to the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE). The workshop will also explore issues around the quality assessment of search filters, including factors such as the method of development, reliability, fitness for purpose and sensitivity and precision.

Through discussion, workshop participants will explore the key differences in filter design methods and other key factors that they should assess before deciding whether to use a particular search filter or filters for research retrieval to inform systematic reviews.


Level of knowledge required to attend: intermediate.