Date created: | Last Updated:

Category: Project

Description: Evidence synthesis is a preferred method to summarize existing data of relevant studies for a certain topic to provide comprehensive evidence to support informed decision-making. However, the reliability of the synthesized evidence relies largely on the validity and quality of original studies. As an increasing number of published studies have been retracted due to insufficient validity, huge concerns around subsequent negative impacts have arisen. In this study, we aim to investigate the potential impact of retracted randomized controlled trials on the synthesized results and conclusions in healthcare practice. Methods and analyses: Retracted randomized controlled trials will be searched via Web of Science and Retraction Watch databases up to May 1st, 2023. A data use agreement has been signed as required by Retraction Watch. Eligible retracted trials identified by two authors will be checked for their citations in Google Scholar, and any reviews with quantitative evidence syntheses that involved the retracted trials will be further identified. Re-analyses will be conducted by removing those studies that were retracted with the same statistical methods used by the review authors, and the direction of the effects as well as significance of p-values will be compared. Discussion: This is the first study to investigate the potential impact of retracted trials on the results and conclusions of evidence synthesis research and their subsequent impact on healthcare practice guidelines. This study will have important implications for evidence synthesis practice, clinical practice guideline development, and healthcare decision-making. Ethics and dissemination: No ethical approval is involved in this study. The findings of this study will be presented at an international scientific conference and published in a peer-reviewed academic journal.