Improving the reproducibility and reporting quality of search strategies in biomedical systematic reviews

Systematic reviews are often considered at the top of the evidence pyramid in the health sciences as they synthesize multiple studies to inform clinical decision-making. Comprehensive and reproducible search strategies are key components of systematic review methodology. Through a blend of meta-research studies, the introduction of the PRISMA-S guidelines, and a randomized controlled trial, this thesis emphasizes the necessity of rigorous search methods and clear, thorough reporting in systematic reviews and related review types. It also demonstrates the significant impact that librarian and information specialist expertise can have on the quality, transparency, and reliability of systematic review search strategies. Furthermore, it addresses current gaps in search strategy reporting and proposes actionable solutions to elevate the standard of systematic reviews across various medical disciplines.