Living Systematic Review [Neurosurgery Wiki]

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====== Living Systematic Review ======

A **living systematic review (LSR)** is a type of [[systematic_review|systematic review]] that is **continually updated** as new research becomes available. It is designed for **rapidly evolving fields**, where timely evidence synthesis is critical for decision-making.

Unlike traditional reviews, LSRs are **dynamic** and incorporate emerging studies through **frequent surveillance** of the literature.

=== Key Features ===
  * Continuous or frequent literature search  
  * Regular updates to include new studies  
  * Use of predefined [[systematic_review_protocol|protocols]]  
  * Transparent version tracking (e.g., update logs, timestamps)  
  * Often supported by automation tools and databases

=== When to Use ===
  * Fields with high publication rates (e.g., COVID-19, AI in medicine)  
  * Topics with high clinical or policy relevance  
  * Areas where up-to-date guidance is essential for patient care

=== Benefits ===
  * Keeps evidence current  
  * Supports living clinical guidelines  
  * Reduces duplication of effort over time

=== Challenges ===
  * Requires dedicated infrastructure and funding  
  * Labor-intensive unless automated  
  * Needs continuous engagement from authors and editors

=== Comparison Table ===

^ Type ^ Update Frequency ^ Typical Use ^ Stability ^
| [[systematic_review|Systematic Review]] | Static (one-time) | General synthesis | Fixed |
| [[rapid_review|Rapid Review]] | One-time, urgent | Policy, emergencies | Fixed |
| **Living Systematic Review** | Frequent/real-time | Fast-moving topics | Dynamic |

=== Related Concepts ===
  * [[prisma|PRISMA 2020]]  
  * [[bias_assessment_tool|Risk of bias tools]]  
  * [[evidence_levels|Evidence grading]]  
  * [[meta_analysis|Meta-analysis]]

{{tag>living_review systematic_review dynamic_review continuous_updates evidence_based_medicine}}