The Open Medical Informatics Journal

2008, 2 : 112-116
Published online 2008 June 6. DOI: 10.2174/1874431100802010112
Publisher ID: TOMINFOJ-2-112

RESEARCH ARTICLE
 Meta-Analysis of Multi-Arm Trials Using Empirical Logistic Transform

Hathaikan Chootrakool and Jian Qing Shi, *
School of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Newcastle, UK

* Address correspondence to this author at the School of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Newcastle, Newcastle uypon Tyne, NE1 7RU, UK; E-mail: j.q.shi@ncl.ac.uk

ABSTRACT

Meta-analysis of multi-arm trials has been used increasingly in recent years. The aim of meta-analysis for multi-arm trials is to combine evidence from all possible similar studies. In this paper we propose normal approximation models by using empirical logistic transform to compare different treatments in multi-arm trials, allowing studies of both direct and indirect comparisons. Additionally, a hierarchical structure is introduced in the models to address the problem of heterogeneity among different studies. The proposed models are performed using the data from 31 randomized clinical trials (RCTs) which determine the efficacy of antiplatelet therapy in maintaining vascular patency.

Keywords:

Meta-analysis, multi-arm trials, empirical logistic transform.