Rapid Review [Neurosurgery Wiki]

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====== Rapid Review ======

A **rapid review** is a form of [[systematic_review|systematic review]] that uses **streamlined methods** to produce evidence **quickly and efficiently**, often for **time-sensitive decision-making** in healthcare or policy.

Rapid reviews balance **speed** and **rigor**, trading some methodological depth for timely results.

=== Key Characteristics ===
  * **Shorter timelines** (weeks to a few months)  
  * May restrict:
    - Number of databases searched  
    - Language or publication date  
    - Study types included  
  * Often skips dual screening or full quality appraisal  
  * Transparent about methodological limitations

=== When to Use ===
  * Public health emergencies (e.g., COVID-19)  
  * Clinical guidelines needing quick updates  
  * Health technology assessments (HTA)  
  * Policy or regulatory decisions

=== Limitations ===
  * Higher risk of [[risk_of_bias|bias]] due to abbreviated methods  
  * May miss relevant studies or nuances  
  * Less reproducible than full systematic reviews

=== Comparison with Other Reviews ===

^ Type ^ Timeline ^ Rigor ^ Use Case ^
| [[systematic_review|Systematic Review]] | Months to >1 year | Very High | Definitive evidence synthesis |
| **Rapid Review** | 1–3 months | Moderate | Urgent decision-making |
| [[scoping_review|Scoping Review]] | Variable | Moderate | Exploratory mapping |
| [[narrative_review|Narrative Review]] | Flexible | Low to moderate | Broad expert-based overview |

=== Related Concepts ===
  * [[systematic_review_protocol|Systematic review protocol]]  
  * [[bias_assessment_tool|Bias assessment tools]]  
  * [[evidence_levels|Levels of evidence]]

{{tag>rapid_review systematic_review evidence_based_medicine hta decision_support}}