What the graph shows
A network graph displays treatment nodes and direct comparison edges. It is an evidence-structure plot, not an effect-size plot.
Nodes represent treatment labels after harmonization. Edges represent at least one direct within-study comparison. Edge thickness or labels may reflect direct evidence volume depending on plot settings and package output.
Default assumptions
- The graph uses the treatment labels supplied by extraction setup or NMA input.
- Reference treatment affects model estimates and forest orientation but does not by itself determine graph connectivity.
- The graph is generated only for requested NMA modules.
- Disconnected or sparse graphs are methodological findings, not rendering failures.
What the graph cannot show
- It does not prove transitivity.
- It does not show risk of bias or certainty unless those are added as separate annotations.
- It does not prove that treatment grouping decisions were clinically valid.
- It does not show whether direct and indirect evidence agree.
Reporting checklist
- Include the graph or a direct comparison table in NMA reports.
- Report disconnected components or sparse edges.
- Explain treatment grouping and reference treatment choices.
- Use the graph to justify which inconsistency diagnostics are possible.