influence meta-analytic This review is limited by the small number of included studies (n = 5), which reduces statistical power and increases uncertainty in pooled estimates. With such a limited evide

The gap

Consensus across the literature

Supporting evidence — 5 representative gaps

• Digital Versus Conventional Splints in Patients With Temporomandibular Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials (2026) · doi

  This study should be interpreted in light of several limitations. The number of included trials was relatively small, and several outcomes were informed by only a limited subset of studies. Heterogeneity was substantial for some endpoints, particularly pain and satisfaction. Variation in splint type, digital workflow, patient selection, and follow-up duration may have influenced the pooled estimates. In addition, some clinically relevant outcomes, such as long-term durability, cost-effectiveness, and the recurrence of symptoms after discontinuation, were either inconsistently reported or unavailable for quantitative synthesis. Nonetheless, by restricting inclusion to randomized data, the present meta-analysis provides the highest level of comparative evidence currently available on this topic.

  Keywords: several outcomes interpreted light limitations number included trials relatively small informed limited subset heterogeneity substantial
• Effectiveness of Arthrocentesis Combined with Occlusal Splint Therapy for Temporomandibular Joint Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (2026) · doi

  Despite the strengths of this systematic review and be meta-analysis, acknowledged: limitations several should 1. Clinical heterogeneity was present among included studies with respect to TMD subtypes, splint design anterior (stabilization, repositioning splints), and duration of splint usage. 2. Sample sizes in individual trials were relatively small, to detect modest centric, distraction, or the statistical power limiting intergroup differences. 3. Follow-up duration varied across studies, with limited availability of long-term (>12 months) outcome data. 4. Outcome assessment tools, particularly pain scales and functional measurements, were not uniformly standardized across studies. 5. Although most studies demonstrated low to moderate risk of bias, blinding of participants and personnel was inherently challenging due to the nature of splint therapy, potentially introducing performance bias. These limitations may have contributed to wide in pooled confidence estimates, warranting cautious interpretation of the results.

  Keywords: splint limitations duration across outcome bias despite strengths systematic review meta acknowledged several clinical heterogeneity
• Effectiveness of Arthrocentesis Combined with Occlusal Splint Therapy for Temporomandibular Joint Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (2026) · doi

  several should 1. Clinical heterogeneity was present among included studies with respect to TMD subtypes, splint design anterior (stabilization, repositioning splints), and duration of splint usage. 2. Sample sizes in individual trials were relatively small, to detect modest centric, distraction, or the statistical power limiting intergroup differences. 3. Follow-up duration varied across studies, with limited availability of long-term (>12 months) outcome data. 4. Outcome assessment tools, particularly pain scales and functional measurements, were not uniformly standardized across studies. 5. Although most studies demonstrated low to moderate risk of bias, blinding of participants and personnel was inherently challenging due to the nature of splint therapy, potentially introducing performance bias. These limitations may have contributed to wide in pooled confidence estimates, warranting cautious interpretation of the results.

  Keywords: splint duration across outcome bias several clinical heterogeneity present among included respect subtypes design anterior
• A systematic review and meta-analysis of analgesia protocols in pediatric dental procedures: current evidence and clinical implications (2026) · doi

  influence meta-analytic This review is limited by the small number of included studies (n = 5), which reduces statistical power and increases uncertainty in pooled estimates. With such a limited evidence base, individual studies may results, disproportionately limiting generalizability across procedures, settings, and age groups. Assessment of publication bias and small-study effects was not feasible, as funnel plots and statistical tests are unreliable with fewer than ten studies. Additionally, variability in pain and anxiety assessment tools and differences in multimodal protocol components contributed to clinical and methodological heterogeneity not fully captured by the I² statistic.

  Keywords: limited small statistical assessment influence meta analytic review number included reduces power increases uncertainty pooled
• Effectiveness of active stretching during training for injury prevention and performance enhancement in sports: A systematic review and meta-analysis (2026) · doi

  However, limitations include the small number of avail- able studies and significant heterogeneity in study pop- ulations and measured variables. Only two similar out- comes; MIS and DF ROM, were reported, restricting the meta-analysis, while only one trial assessed the effect of AS on injury reduction. Additionally, methodological in- consistencies such as variations in stretching protocols (e.g., static vs. dynamic, duration ranging from 3 to 12 weeks) and diversity in outcome measurement tools (e.g., WBLT in cm vs. photographic angle assessments) may have influenced the generalizability of the findings and reduced comparability between studies. The focus on studies in English may also introduce language bias. Furthermore, most studies were not conducted in com- petitive settings, limiting real-world applicability, and only two RCTs met 'good' quality criteria, highlighting the need for more high-quality research.

  Keywords: quality limitations include small number avail able significant heterogeneity ulations measured variables similar comes reported