What is the main focus of a systematic review compared to a narrative review?

A systematic review is characterized by its thorough and methodical approach to evaluating and synthesizing research studies on a specific topic. The main focus of a systematic review is to provide a comprehensive and critical assessment of all available evidence, adhering to a structured protocol. This involves a detailed analysis of variable studies, including the evaluation of study quality, biases, and the consistency of findings across studies. Through this rigorous methodology, systematic reviews aim to minimize bias and provide more reliable conclusions that can inform clinical decision-making.

In contrast, a narrative review is typically more subjective and may not follow a structured process for literature selection or analysis. It often emphasizes the author's interpretation and insights, potentially leading to a limited view based on selected literature rather than a comprehensive assessment of all relevant studies. Therefore, the focus on detailed analysis of variable studies distinctly highlights the systematic review's objective to synthesize evidence in a more systematic, objective, and replicable manner.