Development of a bibliographical search matrix exemplified by a computer-assisted literature search on the evidence of condyle position analysis

Int J Comput Dent. 2009;12(3):207-21.
[Article in English, German]

Abstract

Apart from monographs, textbook publications and publications on websites, scientific studies have also been published concerning the method of condyle position analysis. Determination of the current research status, which can serve as basis for further scientific publications, would therefore be helpful. Accessing the texts published on this subject in scientific journals is comparatively difficult, since a keyworded search term by which the subject area can be narrowed down directly is not available in the dline" database. The development of a computer-assisted bibliographical search matrix, which facilitates clear identification of relevant publications in scientific journals through "Medline", is described in this paper as an example. This search matrix can be used in corresponding web services and can also be imported into research software and saved for future computer-assisted searches. The currently available scientific studies on condyle position analysis have been found and structured with regard to contents on the basis of the search matrix and with the aid of other research sources. The matrix describing the structure of the contents serves as a logical classification on the basis of which the publications have been classified. In addition to the classification by subject, the evidence levels were determined for the scientific studies - on the basis of their concept - and thus the external evidence on condyle position analysis as a procedure was developed.

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Information Storage and Retrieval / methods*
  • MEDLINE*
  • Mandibular Condyle / anatomy & histology*
  • Medical Subject Headings
  • Temporomandibular Joint / anatomy & histology