Systematic reviews (SRs) are essential to providing evidence-based answers to clinical and public health-related questions. Due to the continuous publishing of relevant primary studies in some areas, it is important to keep these SRs up to date. The living systematic review (LSR) approach, which is based on ongoing surveillance of the literature and continual updating, is a good way to do this. However, few guidance documents exist on how to undertake LSRs.
To address this gap, the article summarizes the literature-evaluating methods of conducting, reporting, publishing and appraising LSRs, as well as any guidance on those methods. The review will support LSRs authors seeking guidance.
The scoping review also highlights any knowledge gaps in the field and discusses whether it is necessary to amend or produce new guidance for conducting, reporting and appraising LSRs.