Decision matrix for inconsistency |
Heterogeneity I²> 40% (40% to 74%) |
Unexplained high heterogeneity with I²> 75%and very low P value |
Same direction of effect estimates in the studies | May not downgrade 1 level if most of the studies have similar point estimates and overlapping CI AND all point estimates are pointing in the same direction. | Downgrade 1 level |
Different direction of effect estimates in the studies | Downgrade 1 level | Downgrade 2 levels |