Broad versus narrow research questions in evidence synthesis: a parallel to (and plea for) estimands

TL;DR

The paper discusses the shift from broad to narrow research questions in evidence synthesis, highlighting the influence of the estimand framework on network meta-analysis and clinical trials.

Contribution

It advocates for applying the estimand framework to NMA to improve clarity and relevance in health technology assessment.

Findings

Transition from broad to narrow research questions in NMA.

Estimand framework enhances clarity in clinical trial design.

Potential for improved interpretation in health technology assessment.

Abstract

There has been a transition from broad to more specific research questions in the practice of network meta-analysis (NMA). Such convergence is also taking place in the context of individual registrational trials, following the recent introduction of the estimand framework, which is impacting the design, data collection strategy, analysis and interpretation of clinical trials. The language of estimands has much to offer to NMA, particularly given the "narrow" perspective of treatments and target populations taken in health technology assessment.