Forest plot: An indispensable segment of meta-analysis

Abstract

Forest plot is the graphical display of estimated results from a number of scientific studies included in Meta-Analysis. The name refers to the forest of lines produced. It is also known as a blobbogram and is a graphical representation of data from studies addressing the same question, along with the overall results. It was developed for use in medical research as a means of graphically representing a meta-analysis of the results of randomized controlled trials. One of the foremost advantages of these plots is that one can see and interpret the information from the individual studies that went into meta-analysis at a glance. It also highlights the amount of variation between the studies and an estimate of the overall result. This review article throws a light on the importance of forest plots and their interpretation in the field of dental research.