Review for 10.1186/s12876-020-01472-z (2020)

Reviewer’ s report
Title: Impact of low skeletal muscle mass index and perioperative blood transfusion on the
prognosis for HCC following curative resection
Version: 0Date: 27 Feb 2020
Reviewer's report:
- A description of the methods used for survival analysis should be included. How was this
performed? How were variables selected to be included in the multivariable analyses?- The latter 2 tables (high versus low muscle mass and transfusion versus no transfusion) might beexcluded, as these do not support the research question (i.e. which factors are associated withsurvival).- Was the indication for transfusion (i.e. Hb 7) for all patients the same? In my daily practice, thislimit depends on some other patients factors, such as ASA classification and might be either higheror lower depending on these factors.- Was transfusion independent of intra-operative bloos loss as no difference was described?- Could the authors give an explantation for the facto that there was no difference in the rationormal Hb : low Hb between patients undergoing transfusion versus not undergoing transfusion?- The conclusion ''Multidisciplinary support for recovering low SMI and reducing the use of bloodtransfusion would improve long-term outcomes'' should be changed, as only an association isfound and no causality.
Are the methods appropriate and well described?
If not, please specify what is required in your comments to the authors.
No
Does the work include the necessary controls?
If not, please specify which controls are required in your comments to the authors.
YesAre the conclusions drawn adequately supported by the data shown?
If not, please explain in your comments to the authors.
NoAre you able to assess any statistics in the manuscript or would you recommend an
additional statistical review?If an additional statistical review is recommended, please specify what aspects require furtherassessment in your comments to the editors.
I am able to assess the statistics
Quality of written English
Please indicate the quality of language in the manuscript:
AcceptableDeclaration of competing interests
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none
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