Living Systematic Review
A living systematic review (LSR) is a type of 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 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 | Static (one-time) | General synthesis | Fixed |
| Rapid Review | One-time, urgent | Policy, emergencies | Fixed |
| Living Systematic Review | Frequent/real-time | Fast-moving topics | Dynamic |
Related Concepts
living_review systematic_review dynamic_review continuous_updates evidence_based_medicine