anurajms/meta_analysis huggingface dataset:
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Pentasaccharides for the treatment of deep vein thrombosis
We included randomised controlled trials in which people 18 years of age or older with a DVT confirmed by standard imaging techniques were allocated to receive a pentasaccharide (fondaparinux, idraparinux, or idrabiotaparinux) for the treatment of DVT in comparison with standard therapy or other treatments.
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Virtual reality for stroke rehabilitation
Randomised and quasi‐randomised trials of virtual reality ("an advanced form of human‐computer interface that allows the user to 'interact' with and become 'immersed' in a computer‐generated environment in a naturalistic fashion") in adults after stroke. The primary outcome of interest was upper limb function and activity. Secondary outcomes included gait and balance and global motor function.
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Direct oral anticoagulants versus warfarin for preventing stroke and systemic embolic events among atrial fibrillation patients with chronic kidney disease
We included all randomised controlled trials (RCTs) which directly compared the efficacy and safety of direct oral anticoagulants (direct thrombin inhibitors or factor Xa inhibitors) with dose‐adjusted warfarin for preventing stroke and systemic embolic events in non‐valvular AF patients with CKD, defined as creatinine clearance (CrCl) or eGFR between 15 and 60 mL/min (CKD stage G3 and G4).
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Adenosine versus intravenous calcium channel antagonists for supraventricular tachycardia
We planned to include all RCTs that compare adenosine versus a CCA for patients of any age presenting with SVT.
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Compression therapy for prevention of post‐thrombotic syndrome
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and controlled clinical trials (CCTs) of compression therapy, such as bandaging and elastic stockings, in people with clinically confirmed DVT. The primary outcome was the occurrence of PTS.
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Interventions for treating tuberculous pericarditis
We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi‐RCTs.
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Drug‐eluting stents versus bare‐metal stents for acute coronary syndrome
Randomised clinical trials assessing the effects of drug‐eluting stents versus bare‐metal stents for acute coronary syndrome. We included trials irrespective of publication type, status, date, or language.
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Treadmill training and body weight support for walking after stroke
Randomised or quasi‐randomised controlled and cross‐over trials of treadmill training and body weight support, individually or in combination, for the treatment of walking after stroke.
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Pharmacotherapy for hypertension in adults aged 18 to 59 years
Randomized trials of at least one year' duration comparing antihypertensive pharmacotherapy with a placebo or no treatment in adults aged 18 to 59 years with mild to moderate primary hypertension defined as SBP 140 mmHg or greater or DBP 90 mmHg or greater at baseline, or both.
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Blood pressure targets for hypertension in older adults
Randomised trials, of at least one year's duration, conducted on hypertensive adults aged 65 years or older, which report the effect on mortality and morbidity of a higher systolic or diastolic BP treatment target (whether ambulatory, home, or office measurements) in the range of systolic BP less than 150 to 160 mmHg or diastolic BP less than 95 to 105 mmHg as compared to a lower BP treatment target of less than 140/90 mmHg or lower.
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Low molecular weight heparin for prevention of venous thromboembolism in patients with lower‐limb immobilization
Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and controlled clinical trials (CCTs) that described thromboprophylaxis by means of LMWH compared with no prophylaxis or placebo in adult patients with lower‐limb immobilization. Immobilization was by means of a plaster cast or brace.
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Vitamin K antagonists versus low‐molecular‐weight heparin for the long term treatment of symptomatic venous thromboembolism
Randomised controlled trials comparing LMWH versus VKA for long treatment (three months) of symptomatic VTE. Two review authors independently evaluated trials for inclusion and methodological quality.
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Occupational therapy for adults with problems in activities of daily living after stroke
We identified randomised controlled trials of an occupational therapy intervention (compared with no intervention or standard care/practice) where people with stroke practiced activities of daily living, or where performance in activities of daily living was the focus of the occupational therapy intervention.
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Early supported discharge services for people with acute stroke
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) recruiting stroke patients in hospital to receive either conventional care or any service intervention that has provided rehabilitation and support in a community setting with an aim of reducing the duration of hospital care.
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Psychological interventions for acute pain after open heart surgery
Randomised controlled trials comparing psychological interventions as an adjunct to standard care versus standard care alone or standard care plus attention in adults undergoing open heart surgery.
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Niacin for primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular events
We included all randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that either compared niacin monotherapy to placebo/usual care or niacin in combination with other component versus other component alone. We considered RCTs that administered niacin for at least six months, reported a clinical outcome, and included adults with or without established CVD.
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Growth factors for angiogenesis in peripheral arterial disease
We included randomised controlled trials comparing growth factors (delivered directly or indirectly) with no intervention, placebo or any other intervention not based on the growth factor's action in patients with PAD of the lower extremities. The primary outcomes were limb amputation, death and adverse events. The secondary outcomes comprised walking ability, haemodynamic measures, ulceration and rest pain.
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Circuit class therapy for improving mobility after stroke
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) including people over 18 years old, diagnosed with stroke of any severity, at any stage, or in any setting, receiving CCT.
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Laparoscopic surgery for elective abdominal aortic aneurysm repair
Randomised controlled trials and controlled clinical trials in which patients with an AAA underwent elective laparoscopic repair (total laparoscopic repair or hand‐assisted laparoscopic repair) compared with either open surgical repair or EVAR.
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Complete versus culprit‐only revascularisation in ST elevation myocardial infarction with multi‐vessel disease
We included only randomised controlled trials (RCTs), wherein complete revascularisation strategy was compared with a culprit‐only percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for the treatment of people with STEMI and multi‐vessel coronary disease.
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Nitric oxide donors (nitrates), L‐arginine, or nitric oxide synthase inhibitors for acute stroke
Randomised controlled trials comparing nitric oxide donors, L‐arginine, or NOS‐I versus placebo or open control in people within one week of onset of confirmed stroke.
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Educational and behavioural interventions for anticoagulant therapy in patients with atrial fibrillation
We included randomised controlled trials evaluating the effect of any educational and behavioural intervention compared with usual care, no intervention, or intervention in combination with other self‐management techniques among adults with AF who were eligible for, or currently receiving, OAT.
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Blood pressure lowering efficacy of renin inhibitors for primary hypertension
We included randomized, double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled studies evaluating BP lowering efficacy of fixed‐dose monotherapy with renin inhibitor compared with placebo for a minimum duration of three to 12 weeks in adult patients with primary hypertension.
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Low‐molecular‐weight heparins or heparinoids versus standard unfractionated heparin for acute ischaemic stroke
Unconfounded randomised trials comparing LMWH or heparinoids with standard UFH in people with acute ischaemic stroke, in which participants were recruited within 14 days of stroke onset.
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Exercise‐based cardiac rehabilitation in heart transplant recipients
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of parallel group, cross‐over or cluster design, which compared exercise‐based interventions with (i) no exercise control (ii) a different dose of exercise training (e.g. low‐ versus high‐intensity exercise training); or (iii) an active intervention (i.e. education, psychological intervention). The study population comprised adults aged 18 years or over who had received a heart transplant.
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Continuous chest compression versus interrupted chest compression for cardiopulmonary resuscitation of non‐asphyxial out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest
We included randomized and quasi‐randomized studies in adults and children suffering non‐asphyxial OHCA due to any cause. Studies compared the effects of continuous chest compression CPR (with or without rescue breathing) with interrupted CPR plus rescue breathing provided by rescuers (bystanders or professional CPR providers).
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Vitamin C supplementation for the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease
Randomised controlled trials of vitamin C supplementation as a single nutrient supplement lasting at least three months and involving healthy adults or adults at moderate and high risk of CVD were included. The comparison group was no intervention or placebo. The outcomes of interest were CVD clinical events and CVD risk factors.
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Risk scoring for the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease
We included randomised and quasi‐randomised trials comparing the systematic provision of CVD risk scores by a clinician, healthcare professional, or healthcare system compared with usual care (i.e. no systematic provision of CVD risk scores) in adults without CVD.
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Fixed‐dose combination therapy for the prevention of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases
We included randomised controlled trials of a fixed‐dose combination therapy including at least one blood pressure‐lowering and one lipid‐lowering component versus usual care, placebo, or an active drug comparator for any treatment duration in adults 18 years old or older, with no restrictions on presence or absence of pre‐existing ASCVD.
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Eplerenone for hypertension
We selected randomized placebo‐controlled trials studying adult patients with primary hypertension. We excluded studies in people with secondary or gestational hypertension and studies where participants were receiving multiple antihypertensives.
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Fixed dose subcutaneous low molecular weight heparins versus adjusted dose unfractionated heparin for the initial treatment of venous thromboembolism
Randomised controlled trials comparing fixed dose subcutaneous LMWH with adjusted dose intravenous or subcutaneous unfractionated heparin (UFH) in people with VTE.
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Ranolazine for stable angina pectoris
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) which directly compared the effects of ranolazine versus placebo or other anti‐anginals in people with stable angina pectoris were eligible for inclusion.
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Beta‐blockers for hypertension
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of at least one year of duration, which assessed the effects of beta‐blockers compared to placebo or other drugs, as first‐line therapy for hypertension, on mortality and morbidity in adults.
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Pharmacological treatment of vascular risk factors for reducing mortality and cardiovascular events in patients with abdominal aortic aneurysm
Randomised controlled trials in which people with AAA were randomly allocated to one prophylactic treatment versus another, a different regimen of the same treatment, a placebo, or no treatment were eligible for inclusion in this review. Primary outcomes included all‐cause mortality and cardiovascular mortality.
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Stem cell therapy for chronic ischaemic heart disease and congestive heart failure
Eligible studies were randomised controlled trials comparing autologous adult stem/progenitor cells with no cells in people with chronic ischaemic heart disease and congestive heart failure. We included co‐interventions, such as primary angioplasty, surgery, or administration of stem cell mobilising agents, when administered to treatment and control arms equally.
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Caregiver‐mediated exercises for improving outcomes after stroke
Randomised controlled trials comparing CME to usual care, no intervention, or another intervention as long as it was not caregiver‐mediated, aimed at improving motor function in people who have had a stroke.
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Blood pressure‐lowering efficacy of reserpine for primary hypertension
Included studies were truly randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing reserpine monotherapy to placebo or no treatment in participants with primary hypertension.
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Interventions to improve adherence to lipid‐lowering medication
We evaluated randomised controlled trials of adherence‐enhancing interventions for lipid‐lowering medication in adults in an ambulatory setting with a variety of measurable outcomes, such as adherence to treatment and changes to serum lipid levels. Two teams of review authors independently selected the studies.
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Oxygen therapy for acute myocardial infarction
Randomised controlled trials in people with suspected or proven AMI (ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) or non‐STEMI) within 24 hours after onset, in which the intervention was inhaled oxygen (at normal pressure) compared to air, regardless of co‐therapies provided to participants in both arms of the trial.
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Endovenous ablation therapy (laser or radiofrequency) or foam sclerotherapy versus conventional surgical repair for short saphenous varicose veins
We considered all randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing EVLA, endovenous RFA or UGFS with conventional surgery in the treatment of SSV varices for inclusion.
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Efficacy and safety of ablation for people with non‐paroxysmal atrial fibrillation
We included randomised trials evaluating the effect of radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) or surgical ablation compared with antiarrhythmic drugs in adults with non‐paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, regardless of any concomitant underlying heart disease, with at least 12 months of follow‐up.
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Fibrates for primary prevention of cardiovascular disease events
We aimed to include all RCTs comparing the effects of fibrate monotherapy versus placebo or usual care, or fibrates plus other lipid‐modifying drugs versus other lipid‐modifying drugs alone. Included studies had a follow‐up of at least six months for the primary prevention of CVD events. We excluded trials with clofibrate, because it was withdrawn from the market in 2002.
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Pharmacomechanical thrombectomy for iliofemoral deep vein thrombosis
Randomised controlled trials in which patients with an iliofemoral deep vein thrombosis were allocated to receive pharmacomechanical thrombectomy versus anticoagulation, mechanical thrombectomy, thrombolysis (systemic or catheter directed thrombolysis), or other endovascular techniques for the treatment of iliofemoral DVT.
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Pharmacological interventions other than botulinum toxin for spasticity after stroke
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that compared any systemically acting or locally acting drug versus placebo, control, or comparative drug with the aim of treating spasticity.
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Antiplatelet versus anticoagulation treatment for patients with heart failure in sinus rhythm
We included randomised controlled trials comparing antiplatelet therapy versus oral anticoagulation in adults with chronic heart failure in sinus rhythm. Treatment had to last at least one month. We compared orally administered antiplatelet agents (aspirin, ticlopidine, clopidogrel, prasugrel, ticagrelor, dipyridamole) versus anticoagulant agents (coumarins, warfarin, non‐vitamin K oral anticoagulants).
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Self management programmes for quality of life in people with stroke
We included randomised controlled trials of adults with stroke living in the community who received self management interventions. These interventions included more than one component of self management or targeted more than a single domain of change, or both. Interventions were compared with either an inactive control (waiting list or usual care) or active control (alternate intervention such as education only). Measured outcomes included changes in quality of life, self efficacy, activity or participation levels, impairments, health service usage, health behaviours (such as medication adherence or lifestyle behaviours), cost, participant satisfaction, or adverse events.
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Venous cutdown versus the Seldinger technique for placement of totally implantable venous access ports
We included randomised or quasi‐randomised controlled clinical trials that randomly allocated people requiring TIVAP to the venous cutdown, Seldinger, or modified Seldinger technique. Two review authors independently assessed studies for inclusion eligibility, with a third review author checking excluded studies.
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Intravenous heparin during ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysmal repair
We sought all published and unpublished randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and controlled clinical trials (CCTs) of intravenous heparin in rAAA repairs (including parallel designs).
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Drug‐eluting balloon angioplasty versus uncoated balloon angioplasty for peripheral arterial disease of the lower limbs
We included all randomized controlled trials that compared DEBs with uncoated, nonstenting balloon angioplasty for intermittent claudication (IC) or critical limb ischemia (CLI).
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Pharmacological interventions for treating heart failure in patients with Chagas cardiomyopathy
We included randomised clinical trials (RCTs) that assessed the effects of pharmacological interventions to treat heart failure in adult patients (18 years or older) with symptomatic heart failure (New York Heart Association classes II to IV), regardless of the left ventricular ejection fraction stage (reduced or preserved), with Chagas cardiomyopathy. We did not apply limits to the length of follow‐up. Primary outcomes were all‐cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality at 30 days, time‐to‐heart decompensation, disease‐free period (at 30, 60, and 90 days), and adverse events.
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Sulodexide for treating venous leg ulcers
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) involving people with a diagnosis of venous leg ulcers which compared sulodexide with placebo or any other drug therapy (such as pentoxifylline, flavonoids, aspirin), with or without compression therapy.
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Routine invasive strategies versus selective invasive strategies for unstable angina and non‐ST elevation myocardial infarction in the stent era
We included prospective randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that compared invasive with conservative or 'selective invasive' strategies in participants with acute UA/NSTEMI.
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Implantable loop recorder versus conventional diagnostic workup for unexplained recurrent syncope
We included all randomised controlled trials of adult participants (i.e. ≥ 18 years old) with a diagnosis of unexplained syncope comparing ILR with standard diagnostic workup.
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Anticoagulants (extended duration) for prevention of venous thromboembolism following total hip or knee replacement or hip fracture repair
Randomised controlled trials assessing extended‐duration thromboprophylaxis (five to seven weeks) using accepted prophylactic doses of LMWH, UFH, vitamin K antagonists (VKA) or direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC) compared with short‐duration thromboprophylaxis (seven to 14 days) followed by placebo, no treatment or similar extended‐duration thromboprophylaxis with LMWH, UFH, VKA or DOACs in participants undergoing hip or knee replacement or hip fracture repair.
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Pre‐hospital versus in‐hospital initiation of cooling for survival and neuroprotection after out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest
We searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in adults with out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest comparing cooling in the pre‐hospital setting to in‐hospital cooling. Our primary outcomes were survival and neurological outcome; our secondary outcomes were adverse events, quality of life, and length of stay in the intensive care unit (ICU) and in the hospital.
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Blood pressure lowering efficacy of beta‐1 selective beta blockers for primary hypertension
Randomised, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled parallel or cross‐over trials. Studies had to contain a beta blocker monotherapy arm with fixed dose. People enrolled into the studies had to have primary hypertension at baseline. Duration of studies had to be between 3 weeks to 12 weeks. Drugs in this class of beta blockers are atenolol, betaxolol, bevantolol, bisoprolol, esmolol, metoprolol, nebivolol, pafenolol, practolol.
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Antihypertensive pharmacotherapy for prevention of sudden cardiac death in hypertensive individuals
All randomised trials evaluating any antihypertensive drug treatment for hypertension, defined, when possible, as baseline resting systolic blood pressure of at least 140 mmHg and/or resting diastolic blood pressure of at least 90 mmHg. Comparisons included one or more antihypertensive drugs versus placebo, or versus no treatment.
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Interventions for helping people adhere to compression treatments for venous leg ulceration
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of interventions that aim to help people with venous leg ulcers adhere to compression treatments compared with usual care, or no intervention, or another active intervention. Our main outcomes were ulcer healing, ulcer recurrence, quality of life, pain, adherence to compression therapy and number of people with adverse events.
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Calcium channel blockers for primary Raynaud's phenomenon
Randomised controlled trials evaluating the effects of oral calcium channel blockers for the treatment of primary Raynaud's phenomenon.
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Sexual counselling for sexual problems in patients with cardiovascular disease
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi‐RCTs, including individual and cluster RCTs. We included studies that compared any intervention to counsel adult cardiac patients about sexual problems with usual care.
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Oral aspirin for treating venous leg ulcers
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that compared oral aspirin with placebo or no drug intervention (in the presence or absence of compression therapy) for treating people with venous leg ulcers. Our main outcomes were time to complete ulcer healing, rate of change in the area of the ulcer, proportion of ulcers healed in the trial period, major bleeding, pain, mortality, adverse events and ulcer recurrence (time for recurrence and proportion of recurrence).
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Biphasic versus monophasic waveforms for transthoracic defibrillation in out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that compared biphasic and monophasic waveform defibrillation in adults with OHCA. Two review authors independently screened the literature search results.
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Systematic versus opportunistic risk assessment for the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease
We selected randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that assessed the effects of systematic risk assessment, defined as a screening‐like programme involving a predetermined selection process of people, compared with opportunistic risk assessment which ranged from no risk assessment at all to incentivised case finding of CVD and related risk factors. Participants included healthy adults from the general population, including those who are at risk of CVD.
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Warfarin initiation nomograms for venous thromboembolism
Randomized controlled studies comparing warfarin initiation nomograms of 10 and 5 mg in patients with VTE.
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Perioperative angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin II type 1 receptor blockers for preventing mortality and morbidity in adults
We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing perioperative administration of ACEIs or ARBs with placebo in adults (aged 18 years and above) undergoing any type of surgery under general anaesthesia. We excluded studies in which participants underwent procedures that required local anaesthesia only, or participants who had already been on ACEIs or ARBs.
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Colchicine for prevention of cardiovascular events
Randomised controlled trials (parallel‐group or cluster design or first phases of cross‐over studies) comparing colchicine over at least six months versus any control in any adult population.
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A 'test and treat' strategy for elevated wound protease activity for healing in venous leg ulcers
Published or unpublished RCTs which assessed a test and treat strategy for elevated protease activity in venous leg ulcers in adults compared with an alternative treatment strategy. The test and treat strategy needed to be the only systematic difference between the groups.
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Internet‐based interventions for the secondary prevention of coronary heart disease
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating Internet‐delivered secondary prevention interventions aimed at people with CHD.
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Nurse‐led titration of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors, beta‐adrenergic blocking agents, and angiotensin receptor blockers for people with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing NLT of beta‐adrenergic blocking agents, ACEIs, and/or ARBs comparing the optimisation of these medications by a nurse to optimisation by another health professional in patients with HFrEF.
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Amiodarone versus other pharmacological interventions for prevention of sudden cardiac death
Randomised and quasi‐randomised trials assessing the efficacy of amiodarone versus placebo, no intervention, or other antiarrhythmics in adults. For primary prevention we considered participants at high risk for SCD. For secondary prevention we considered participants recovered from cardiac arrest or syncope due to ventricular arrhythmias.
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Aminophylline for bradyasystolic cardiac arrest in adults
All randomised controlled trials comparing intravenous aminophylline with administered placebo in adults with non‐traumatic, normothermic bradyasystolic cardiac arrest who were treated with standard advanced cardiac life support (ACLS).
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Structured telephone support or non‐invasive telemonitoring for patients with heart failure
We included only peer‐reviewed, published RCTs comparing structured telephone support or non‐invasive home telemonitoring to usual care of people with chronic heart failure. The intervention or usual care could not include protocol‐driven home visits or more intensive than usual (typically four to six weeks) clinic follow‐up.
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Fibrates for secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease and stroke
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in which a fibrate (for example gemfibrozil, fenofibrate) was compared with placebo or no treatment. We excluded RCTs with only laboratory outcomes. We also excluded trials comparing two different fibrates without a placebo or no‐treatment control.
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Implantable defibrillators versus medical therapy for cardiac channelopathies
We included all randomized controlled trials of people aged 18 years and older with ion channelopathies, including congenital long QT syndrome, congenital short QT syndrome, Brugada syndrome, or catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia. Participants must have been randomized to ICD implantation and compared to antiarrhythmic drug therapy or usual care.
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Stent graft types for endovascular repair of thoracic aortic aneurysms
All published and unpublished randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of stent graft types in the repair of thoracic aortic aneurysms were sought without language restriction.
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Debridement for venous leg ulcers
We included RCTs, either published or unpublished, which compared two methods of debridement or compared debridement with no debridement. We presented study results in a narrative form, as meta‐analysis was not possible.
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Closure versus medical therapy for preventing recurrent stroke in patients with patent foramen ovale and a history of cryptogenic stroke or transient ischemic attack
We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs), irrespective of blinding, publication status, and language, comparing the safety and efficacy of device closure with medical therapy for preventing recurrent stroke or TIA in people with PFO and a history of cryptogenic stroke or TIA.
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Blood pressure lowering efficacy of dual alpha and beta blockers for primary hypertension
Randomized double blind placebo controlled parallel or cross‐over trials. Studies contained a beta blocker monotherapy arm with a fixed dose. Patients enrolled in the studies had primary hypertension at baseline. Duration of the studies was from three to 12 weeks. Drugs in this class of beta blockers are carvedilol, dilevalol and labetalol.
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Prophylactic lidocaine for myocardial infarction
We included randomised controlled trials assessing the effects of prophylactic lidocaine for myocardial infarction. We considered all‐cause mortality, cardiac mortality and overall survival at 30 days after myocardial infarction as primary outcomes.
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Buflomedil for acute ischaemic stroke
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that investigated the efficacy of buflomedil in people with acute ischaemic stroke. The primary outcome of this review was long‐term death or disability/dependence. Other outcomes included short‐term death, short‐term disability, neurological deficits, and adverse events. We included trials comparing buflomedil versus a placebo control, trials comparing buflomedil plus usual medical care versus usual medical care alone, or those comparing buflomedil plus another intervention versus that intervention alone. We excluded trials comparing buflomedil alone with other potentially active intervention(s).
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Negative pressure wound therapy for treating leg ulcers
Published or unpublished randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the effects of NPWT with alternative treatments or different types of NPWT in the treatment of leg ulcers.
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Fresh frozen plasma for cardiovascular surgery
We included randomised controlled trials in patients undergoing major cardiac or vascular surgery who were allocated to a FFP group or a comparator (no plasma or an active comparator, either clinical plasma (any type) or a plasma‐derived blood product). We included participants of any age (neonates, children and adults). We excluded studies of plasmapheresis and plasma exchange.
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Psychosocial interventions for smoking cessation in patients with coronary heart disease
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in patients with CHD with a minimum follow‐up of 6 months.
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Interventions for post‐stroke fatigue
Two review authors independently scrutinised all titles and abstracts and excluded obviously irrelevant studies. We obtained the full texts for potentially relevant studies and three review authors independently applied the inclusion criteria. We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that compared an intervention with a control, or compared different interventions for PSF.
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Psychological interventions for symptomatic management of non‐specific chest pain in patients with normal coronary anatomy
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) with standardised outcome methodology that tested any form of psychotherapy for chest pain with normal anatomy. Diagnoses included non‐specific chest pain (NSCP), atypical chest pain, syndrome X or chest pain with normal coronary anatomy (as either inpatients or outpatients).
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Primary prophylaxis for venous thromboembolism in patients undergoing cardiac or thoracic surgery
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi‐RCTs comparing any oral or parenteral anticoagulant or mechanical intervention to no intervention or placebo, or comparing two different anticoagulants.
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Motivational interviewing for improving recovery after stroke
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing motivational interviewing with no intervention, sham motivational interviewing or other psychological therapy for people with stroke were eligible.
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Anti‐inflammatory treatment for carditis in acute rheumatic fever
Randomised controlled trials comparing anti‐inflammatory agents (e.g. aspirin, steroids, immunoglobulins, pentoxifylline) versus placebo or controls, or comparing any of the anti‐inflammatory agents versus one another, in adults and children with acute rheumatic fever diagnosed according to Jones, or modified Jones, criteria. The presence of cardiac disease one year after treatment was the major outcome criterion selected.
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Blood pressure‐lowering efficacy of loop diuretics for primary hypertension
We included double‐blind randomized placebo‐controlled trials of at least three weeks duration comparing loop diuretic with a placebo in people with primary hypertension defined as blood pressure greater than 140/90 mmHg at baseline.
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Adenosine and verapamil for no‐reflow during primary percutaneous coronary intervention in people with acute myocardial infarction
We selected randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in which adenosine or verapamil was the primary intervention. Participants were individuals diagnosed with AMI who were undergoing PPCI.
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Influenza vaccines for preventing cardiovascular disease
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of influenza vaccination compared with placebo or no treatment in participants with or without cardiovascular disease, assessing cardiovascular death or non‐fatal cardiovascular events.
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Intra‐aortic balloon pump counterpulsation (IABP) for myocardial infarction complicated by cardiogenic shock
Randomised controlled trials on patients with acute myocardial infarction complicated by cardiogenic shock.
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Anaesthetic and sedative agents used for electrical cardioversion
We considered all randomized controlled trials and quasi‐randomized and cluster‐randomized studies with adult participants undergoing electrical cardioversion procedures in the elective or emergency setting.
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Interventions for improving community ambulation in individuals with stroke
Selection criteria included parallel‐group randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and cross‐over RCTs, studies in which participants are adult (aged 18 years or more) stroke survivors, and interventions that were aimed at improving community ambulation. We defined the primary outcome as participation; secondary outcomes included activity level outcomes related to gait and self‐efficacy.
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Atorvastatin for lowering lipids
Randomised controlled and uncontrolled before‐and‐after trials evaluating the dose response of different fixed doses of atorvastatin on blood lipids over a duration of three to 12 weeks.
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HMG CoA reductase inhibitors (statins) for preventing acute kidney injury after surgical procedures requiring cardiac bypass
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that compared administration of statin therapy with placebo or standard clinical care in adult patients undergoing surgery requiring cardiopulmonary bypass and reporting AKI, serum creatinine (SCr) or need for renal replacement therapy (RRT) as an outcome were eligible for inclusion. All forms and dosages of statins in conjunction with any duration of pre‐operative therapy were considered for inclusion in this review.
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Transmyocardial laser revascularization versus medical therapy for refractory angina
We selected studies if they fulfilled the following criteria: randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of TMLR, by thoracotomy, in patients with Canadian Cardiovascular Society or New York Heart Association angina grade III‐IV who were excluded from other revascularization procedures.
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Antiplatelet agents for preventing thrombosis after peripheral arterial bypass surgery
Two review authors, RB and AL, independently reviewed studies found in the search and evaluated them based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, resolving disagreements through discussion.
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Effectiveness of the Valsalva Manoeuvre for reversion of supraventricular tachycardia
We included all randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that examined the effectiveness of VM in terminating SVT.
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Beta‐adrenergic blockers for perioperative cardiac risk reduction in people undergoing vascular surgery
We included prospective, randomised controlled trials of perioperative beta‐adrenergic blockade of people over 18 years of age undergoing non‐cardiac vascular surgery.
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Statins for primary prevention of venous thromboembolism
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that assessed statins in the primary prevention of VTE were considered. The outcomes we evaluated were the rates of VTE, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events, death and adverse events. Two authors (L Li, JH Tian) independently selected RCTs against the inclusion criteria. Disagreements were resolved by discussion with a third author (KH Yang).
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Biologics, colchicine, corticosteroids, immunosuppressants and interferon‐alpha for Neuro‐Behçet's Syndrome
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs), controlled clinical trials (CCTs), prospective and retrospective controlled cohort studies were eligible to assess the benefit. Patients over 13 years of age with a diagnosis of NBS. For assessment of harms, open‐label extension (OLE), case‐control studies, population‐based registries, case‐series and case‐reports were additionally planned to be evaluated.
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Balloon angioplasty, with and without stenting, versus medical therapy for hypertensive patients with renal artery stenosis
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing balloon angioplasty with medical therapy in hypertensive patients with haemodynamically significant renal artery stenosis (greater than 50% reduction in luminal diameter) and with a minimum follow‐up of six months.
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Blood pressure lowering efficacy of partial agonist beta blocker monotherapy for primary hypertension
Randomized double‐blinded placebo‐controlled parallel or cross‐over trials. Studies must contain a partial agonist monotherapy arm with fixed dose. Patients enrolled into the studies must have primary hypertension at baseline (defined as SBP/DBP > 140/90 mmHg). Duration of studies must be between three to 12 weeks.
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Rosuvastatin for lowering lipids
Randomized controlled and uncontrolled before‐and‐after trials evaluating the dose response of different fixed doses of rosuvastatin on blood lipids over a duration of three to 12 weeks.
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Interventions for deliberately altering blood pressure in acute stroke
Randomised controlled trials of interventions that aimed to alter blood pressure compared with control in participants within one week of acute ischaemic or haemorrhagic stroke.
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Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) plus delayed defibrillation versus immediate defibrillation for out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest
Our participant group consisted of adults over 18 years of age presenting with OHCA who were in VF or pulseless VT at the time of emergency medical service (EMS) paramedic arrival. We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi‐randomized controlled trials that evaluated the effects of one and one‐half to three minutes of CPR versus defibrillation as initial therapy on survival and neurological outcomes of these participants. We excluded observational and cross‐over design studies.
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Pre‐hospital versus in‐hospital thrombolysis for ST‐elevation myocardial infarction
We included randomised controlled trials of pre‐hospital versus in‐hospital thrombolysis in adults with ST‐elevation myocardial infarction diagnosed by a healthcare provider.
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Time course for blood pressure lowering of dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers
We included all randomized, placebo‐controlled trials assessing the hourly effects of dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers by ambulatory blood pressure monitoring in adults with hypertension with a follow‐up of at least three weeks.
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Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors versus angiotensin receptor blockers for primary hypertension
We included randomized controlled trials enrolling people with uncontrolled or controlled primary hypertension with or without other risk factors. Included trials must have compared an ACE inhibitor and an ARB in a head‐to‐head manner, and lasted for a duration of at least one year. If background blood pressure lowering agents were continued or added during the study, the protocol to do so must have been the same in both study arms.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Exercise for people with high cardiovascular risk
Randomized clinical trials comparing aerobic or resistance exercise training versus no exercise or any standard approach that does not include exercise. Participants had to be 18 years of age or older with an average 10‐year Framingham risk score of 10% for cardiovascular disease over 10 years, or with two or more cardiovascular risk factors, and no history of cardiovascular disease.
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Heparin versus placebo for non‐ST elevation acute coronary syndromes
Randomized controlled trials of parenteral UFH or LMWH versus placebo in people with non‐ST elevation acute coronary syndromes (unstable angina or NSTEMI).
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Angioplasty versus bare metal stenting for superficial femoral artery lesions
Randomised trials of angioplasty alone versus angioplasty with bare metal stenting for the treatment of superficial femoral artery stenoses.
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Anticoagulation therapy versus placebo for pulmonary hypertension
We planned to include only randomised controlled trials. Participants with PH with co‐morbidities including medical conditions requiring long‐term anticoagulation were to be included. We also planned to include trials comparing any anticoagulant with placebo.