anurajms/meta_analysis huggingface dataset:
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Endometrial preparation for women undergoing embryo transfer with frozen embryos or embryos derived from donor oocytes
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating endometrial preparation in women undergoing fresh donor cycles and frozen embryo transfers.
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Preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidies (abnormal number of chromosomes) in in vitro fertilisation
All randomised controlled trials (RCTs) reporting data on clinical outcomes in participants undergoing IVF with PGT‐A versus IVF without PGT‐A were eligible for inclusion.
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Hyaluronic acid in embryo transfer media for assisted reproductive technologies
Only truly randomised controlled trials comparing embryo transfer media containing functional concentrations of adherence compounds to media with no or low adherence compound concentrations were included.
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Number of embryos for transfer following in vitro fertilisation or intra‐cytoplasmic sperm injection
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing different policies for the number of embryos transferred following IVF or ICSI in infertile women. Studies of fresh or frozen and thawed transfer of one to four embryos at cleavage or blastocyst stage were eligible.
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Fluid and pharmacological agents for adhesion prevention after gynaecological surgery
Randomised controlled trials investigating the use of fluid (including gel) and pharmacological agents to prevent adhesions after gynaecological surgery.
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Barrier agents for adhesion prevention after gynaecological surgery
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) on the use of barrier agents compared with other barrier agents, placebo, or no treatment for prevention of adhesions in women undergoing gynaecological surgery.
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Intra‐uterine insemination for unexplained subfertility
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing IUI with TI or expectant management, both in stimulated or natural cycles, or IUI in stimulated cycles with IUI in natural cycles in couples with unexplained subfertility.
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Regular (ICSI) versus ultra‐high magnification (IMSI) sperm selection for assisted reproduction
We only considered RCTs that compared ICSI and IMSI; we did not include quasi‐randomised trials. We considered studies that permitted the inclusion of the same participant more than once (cross‐over or per cycle trials) only if data regarding the first treatment of each participant were available.
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Laparoscopic ovarian drilling for ovulation induction in women with anovulatory polycystic ovary syndrome
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of women with anovulatory PCOS and CC resistance who underwent LOD with or without medical ovulation induction versus medical ovulation induction alone, LOD with assisted reproductive technologies (ART) versus ART, LOD with second‐look laparoscopy versus expectant management, or different techniques of LOD.
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Surgical treatment of fibroids for subfertility
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) examining the effect of myomectomy compared to no intervention or where different surgical approaches are compared regarding the effect on fertility outcomes in a group of infertile women suffering from uterine fibroids.
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Granulocyte‐colony stimulating factor administration for subfertile women undergoing assisted reproduction
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing G‐CSF administration versus no treatment or placebo in subfertile women undergoing IVF treatment.
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Semen preparation techniques for intrauterine insemination
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the efficacy in terms of clinical outcomes of semen preparation techniques used for subfertile couples undergoing IUI.
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Temperature of embryo culture for assisted reproduction
Two review authors independently screened the titles and abstracts of articles retrieved by the search. Full texts of potentially eligible randomised controlled trials (RCTs) were obtained and screened. We included all RCTs which compared different temperatures of embryo culture in IVF or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), with a minimum difference in temperature between the two incubators of ≥ 0.5°C. The search process is shown in the PRISMA flow chart.
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Interventions for unexplained infertility: a systematic review and network meta‐analysis
We included RCTs comparing at least two of the following clinical management options in couples with unexplained infertility: expectant management, OS, IUI, OS‐IUI, and IVF (or combined with ICSI).
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Time‐lapse systems for embryo incubation and assessment in assisted reproduction
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing TLS, with or without embryo selection software, versus conventional incubation with morphological assessment; and TLS with embryo selection software versus TLS without embryo selection software among couples undergoing ART.
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Strategies to improve adherence and continuation of shorter‐term hormonal methods of contraception
We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing strategies aimed to facilitate adherence and continuation of shorter‐term hormonal methods of contraception (such as oral contraceptives (OCs), injectable depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA or Depo‐Provera), intravaginal ring, or transdermal patch) with usual family planning care in reproductive age women seeking to avoid pregnancy.
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Interventions using social networking sites to promote contraception in women of reproductive age
We considered randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and non‐randomised interventional studies (NRS) in women of reproductive age. SNSs requiring a social profile within a bounded or restricted‐access system of shared connections were included. We also included trials that utilised SNSs only or as an adjunct to an intervention. Studies had to have a follow‐up outcome assessment of at least three months.
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Interventions for emergency contraception
Randomised controlled trials including women attending services for EC following a single act of unprotected intercourse were eligible.
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Inositol for subfertile women with polycystic ovary syndrome
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that compared any type, dose, or combination of oral inositol versus placebo, no treatment/standard treatment, or treatment with another antioxidant, or with a fertility agent, or with another type of inositol, among subfertile women with PCOS.
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Hysteroscopy for treating subfertility associated with suspected major uterine cavity abnormalities
Randomised comparison between operative hysteroscopy versus control for unexplained subfertility associated with suspected major uterine cavity abnormalities.Randomised comparison between operative hysteroscopy versus control for suspected major uterine cavity abnormalities prior to medically assisted reproduction.Primary outcomes were live birth and hysteroscopy complications. Secondary outcomes were pregnancy and miscarriage.
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Penile rehabilitation for postprostatectomy erectile dysfunction
We included randomised or quasi‐randomised trials with a parallel or cross‐over design.
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Intrauterine administration of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) for subfertile women undergoing assisted reproduction
We looked for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating IC‐hCG around the time of ET, irrespective of language and country of origin.
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Vasodilators for women undergoing fertility treatment
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing vasodilators alone or in combination with other treatments versus placebo or no treatment or versus other agents in women undergoing fertility treatment.
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Pain relief for women undergoing oocyte retrieval for assisted reproduction
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing different methods and administrative protocols for conscious sedation and analgesia during oocyte retrieval.
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Application of seminal plasma to female genital tract prior to embryo transfer in assisted reproductive technology cycles (IVF, ICSI and frozen embryo transfer)
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) conducted among women undergoing ART, comparing any procedure that would expose the female genital tract to seminal plasma during the period starting five days before embryo transfer and ending two days after it versus no seminal plasma application.
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Anti‐adhesion therapy following operative hysteroscopy for treatment of female subfertility
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of anti‐adhesion therapies versus placebo, no treatment or any other anti‐adhesion therapy following operative hysteroscopy in subfertile women. The primary outcome was live birth. Secondary outcomes were clinical pregnancy, miscarriage and IUAs present at second‐look hysteroscopy, along with mean adhesion scores and severity of IUAs.
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Oral medications including clomiphene citrate or aromatase inhibitors with gonadotropins for controlled ovarian stimulation in women undergoing in vitro fertilisation
We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The primary outcomes were live‐birth rate (LBR) and OHSS.
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Pain relief for outpatient hysteroscopy
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing use of pharmacological interventions with other pharmacological interventions and pharmacological interventions versus placebo or no treatment.
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Cycle regimens for frozen‐thawed embryo transfer
We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the various cycle regimens and different methods used to prepare the endometrium during FET.
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Recombinant luteinizing hormone (rLH) and recombinant follicle stimulating hormone (rFSH) for ovarian stimulation in IVF/ICSI cycles
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing rLH combined with rFSH versus rFSH alone in IVF/ISCI cycles.
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Coasting (withholding gonadotrophins) for preventing ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome
We included only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in which coasting was used to prevent OHSS.
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Septum resection for women of reproductive age with a septate uterus
We planned to include randomised controlled trials that assessed the effect on reproductive outcomes and the safety of hysteroscopic septum resection in women of reproductive age with a septate uterus.
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Clomiphene and other antioestrogens for ovulation induction in polycystic ovarian syndrome
We considered RCTs comparing oral antioestrogen agents for ovulation induction (alone or in conjunction with medical therapies) in anovulatory subfertility. We excluded insulin‐sensitising agents, aromatase inhibitors, and hyperprolactinaemic infertility.
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Day three versus day two embryo transfer following in vitro fertilization or intracytoplasmic sperm injection
Randomised controlled trials that compared Day 3 versus Day 2 embryo transfer after oocyte retrieval during an IVF or ICSI treatment cycle in infertile couples.
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Human chorionic gonadotrophin priming for fertility treatment with in vitro maturation
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that compared hCG priming with placebo or no priming in women undergoing IVM. We also included RCTs that compared different doses of hCG, or the timing of oocyte retrieval. The primary outcomes were live birth rate and miscarriage rate per woman randomised.
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Aspirin for in vitro fertilisation
Randomised controlled trials on aspirin for women undergoing ART.
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Volume expanders for the prevention of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing volume expanders versus placebo or no treatment for the prevention of OHSS in high‐risk women undergoing ovarian hyperstimulation as part of any assisted reproductive technique.
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Progestin‐only contraceptives: effects on weight
We considered comparative studies that examined a POC versus another contraceptive method or no contraceptive. The primary outcome was mean change in body weight or mean change in body composition. We also considered the dichotomous outcome of loss or gain of a specified amount of weight.
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Hormonal contraceptives for contraception in overweight or obese women
All study designs were eligible. The study could have examined any type of hormonal contraceptive. Reports had to contain information on the specific contraceptive methods used. The primary outcome was pregnancy. Overweight or obese women must have been identified by an analysis cutoff for weight or BMI (kg/m2).
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Gonadotrophin‐releasing hormone antagonists for assisted reproductive technology
Two review authors independently screened the relevant citations for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing different GnRH agonist versus GnRH antagonist protocols in women undergoing in vitro fertilisation (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).
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Recombinant versus urinary human chorionic gonadotrophin for final oocyte maturation triggering in IVF and ICSI cycles
Two review authors independently scanned titles and abstracts and selected those that appeared relevant for collection of the full paper. We included randomised controlled trials comparing rhCG and rLH with urinary hCG for final oocyte maturation triggering in IVF and ICSI cycles for treatment of infertility in normogonadotropic women.
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Psychological and educational interventions for subfertile men and women
We included published and unpublished randomised controlled trials (RCTs), cluster randomised trials, and cross‐over trials (first phase) evaluating the effectiveness of psychological and educational interventions on psychological and fertility treatment outcomes in subfertile couples.
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Brief educational strategies for improving contraception use in young people
We considered randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that assigned individuals or clusters as well as non‐randomized studies (NRS). We included young people to age 25.The intervention had to be sufficiently brief for a clinic, i.e. one to three sessions of 15 to 60 minutes plus potential follow‐up. The strategy had to emphasize one or more effective methods of contraception. Primary outcomes were pregnancy and contraceptive use.
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Ultrasound versus 'clinical touch' for catheter guidance during embryo transfer in women
We included only randomised controlled trials.
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Assisted reproductive technologies for male subfertility
We included RCTs comparing different treatment options for male subfertility. These were expectant management, TI (with or without ovarian hyperstimulation (OH)), IUI (with or without OH), IVF and ICSI. We included only couples with abnormal sperm parameters.
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Culture media for human pre‐implantation embryos in assisted reproductive technology cycles
We included all randomised controlled trials which randomised women, oocytes or embryos and compared any two commercially available culture media for human pre‐implantation embryos in an IVF or ICSI programme.
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Gonadotrophin‐releasing hormone agonist protocols for pituitary suppression in assisted reproduction
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing any two protocols of GnRHa used in in vitro fertilisation (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycles in subfertile women.
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Lactational amenorrhoea method for family planning
Out of 459 potentially relevant studies, 159 investigated the risk of pregnancy during LAM or lactational amenorrhoea. Our inclusion criteria were as follows: prospective study; cases (intervention group) and, if available, controls, had to be sexually active; pregnancy had to be confirmed by physical examination or a pregnancy test. Our endpoints were life table menstruation rates and life table pregnancy rates. We included 15 studies reporting on 11 intervention groups and three control groups. We identified one additional uncontrolled study in the 2007 update and one additional controlled study in this 2015 update.
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Pain relief in hysterosalpingography
All identified randomised controlled trials investigating pharmacological interventions for pain relief during HSG were investigated for selection.
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Luteal phase support for assisted reproduction cycles
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of luteal phase support using progesterone, hCG or GnRH agonist supplementation in ART cycles.
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Ovarian cyst aspiration prior to in vitro fertilization treatment for subfertility
We included all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing functional ovarian cyst aspiration versus conservative management of ovarian cysts that have been seen on transvaginal ultrasound (TVS) prior to COH for IVF or ICSI. Ovarian cysts were defined as simple, functional ovarian cysts > 20 mm in diameter. Oocyte donors and women undergoing donor oocyte cycles were excluded.
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Gonadotropin‐releasing hormone agonist versus HCG for oocyte triggering in antagonist‐assisted reproductive technology
RCTs that compared the clinical outcomes of GnRH agonist triggers versus HCG for final oocyte maturation triggering in women undergoing GnRH antagonist IVF/ICSI treatment cycles were included.
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Vitrification versus slow freezing for women undergoing oocyte cryopreservation
Two review authors independently selected randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing vitrification and slow freezing for oocyte preservation in women undergoing assisted reproduction.
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Surgical intervention versus expectant management for endometrial polyps in subfertile women
Only randomised controlled trials, reporting pregnancy or live birth rates and complication rates as primary or secondary outcomes, in which polyps were removed surgically prior to treatment of subfertility were eligible for inclusion. The diagnosis of endometrial polyps was required to be made by transvaginal ultrasound, hysterosalpingography, saline infusion, sono‐hysterography or hysteroscopy. Any surgical technique of polyp removal was acceptable, with no intervention in the control groups.
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Steroidal contraceptives: effect on carbohydrate metabolism in women without diabetes mellitus
All randomized controlled trials were considered if they examined carbohydrate metabolism in women without diabetes who used hormonal contraceptives for contraception. Comparisons could be a placebo, a non‐hormonal contraceptive, or another hormonal contraceptive that differed in drug, dosage, or regimen. Interventions included at least three cycles. Outcomes included glucose and insulin measures.
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Oral contraceptives for functional ovarian cysts
We included randomized controlled trials in any language that included oral contraceptives used for treatment and not prevention of functional ovarian cysts. Criteria for diagnosis of cysts were those used by authors of trials.
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Combination contraceptives: effects on weight
All English‐language, randomized controlled trials were eligible if they had at least three treatment cycles and compared a combination contraceptive to a placebo or to a combination contraceptive that differed in drug, dosage, regimen, or study length.
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Heparin for assisted reproduction
All randomised controlled trials (RCTs) were included where peri‐implantation heparin was given during assisted reproduction. Live birth rate was the primary outcome.
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Exercise as adjunctive therapy for systemic lupus erythematosus
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of exercise as an adjunct to usual pharmacological treatment in SLE compared with placebo, usual pharmacological care alone and another non‐pharmacological treatment. Major outcomes were fatigue, functional capacity, disease activity, quality of life, pain, serious adverse events, and withdrawals due to any reason, including any adverse events.
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Adjunctive therapies in addition to land‐based exercise therapy for osteoarthritis of the hip or knee
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi‐RCTs of people with hip or knee osteoarthritis comparing adjunctive therapies alongside land‐based exercise therapy (experimental group) versus placebo adjunctive therapies alongside land‐based exercise therapy, or land‐based exercise therapy (control groups). Exercise had to be identical in both groups. Major outcomes were pain, physical function, participant‐reported global assessment, quality of life (QOL), radiographic joint structural changes, adverse events and withdrawals due to adverse events. We evaluated short‐term (6 months), medium‐term (6 to 12 months) and long‐term (12 months onwards) effects.
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Stem cell transplantation for systemic sclerosis
We included RCTs that compared HSCT to immunomodulators in the treatment of SSc.
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Dietary supplements for chronic gout
We considered all published randomised controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi‐RCTs that compared dietary supplements with no supplements, placebo, another supplement, or pharmacological agents for adults with chronic gout for inclusion. Dietary supplements included, but were not limited to, amino acids, antioxidants, essential minerals, polyunsaturated fatty acids, prebiotic agents, probiotic agents, and vitamins. The major outcomes were acute gout flares, study withdrawal due to adverse events (AEs), serum uric acid (sUA) reduction, joint pain reduction, participant global assessment, total number of AEs, and tophus regression.
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Autologous blood and platelet‐rich plasma injection therapy for lateral elbow pain
We included all randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi‐RCTs comparing autologous whole blood or PRP injection therapy to another therapy (placebo or active treatment, including non‐pharmacological therapies, and comparison between PRP and autologous blood) for lateral elbow pain. The primary comparison was PRP versus placebo. Major outcomes were pain relief (≥ 30% or ≥ 50%), mean pain, mean function, treatment success, quality of life, withdrawal due to adverse events, and adverse events; the primary time point was three months.
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Colchicine for acute gout
We considered published randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi‐randomised controlled trials (quasi‐RCTs) evaluating colchicine therapy compared with another therapy (placebo or active) in acute gout; low‐dose colchicine at clinically relevant doses compared with placebo was the primary comparison. The major outcomes were pain, participant global assessment of treatment success (proportion with 50% or greater decrease in pain from baseline up to 32 to 36 hours), reduction of inflammation, function of target joint, serious adverse events, total adverse events and withdrawals due to adverse events.
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Tramadol for osteoarthritis
We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that evaluated the effect of tramadol, or tramadol in combination with acetaminophen (paracetamol) or NSAIDs versus placebo or any comparator in people with osteoarthritis.
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Down‐titration and discontinuation strategies of tumour necrosis factor–blocking agents for rheumatoid arthritis in patients with low disease activity
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and controlled clinical trials (CCTs) comparing down‐titration (dose reduction, discontinuation, disease activity–guided dose tapering) of anti‐TNF agents (adalimumab, certolizumab pegol, etanercept, golimumab, infliximab) to usual care/no down‐titration in people with RA and low disease activity.
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Methotrexate for psoriatic arthritis
We included all randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi‐RCTs that compared methotrexate versus placebo, or versus another DMARD, for adults with psoriatic arthritis. We reported on the following major outcomes: disease response (measured by psoriatic arthritis response criteria (PsARC)), function (measured by the Health Assessment Questionnaire for Rheumatoid Arthritis (HAQ)), health‐related quality of life, disease activity (measured by disease activity score (28 joints) with erythrocyte sedimentation rate (DAS28‐ESR)), radiographic progression, serious adverse events, and withdrawals due to adverse events.
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Exercise for rheumatoid arthritis of the hand
We considered all randomised or quasi‐randomised controlled trials that compared hand exercise with any non‐exercise therapy.
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Exercise interventions and patient beliefs for people with hip, knee or hip and knee osteoarthritis: a mixed methods review
To be included in the quantitative synthesis, studies had to be randomised controlled trials of land‐ or water‐based exercise programmes compared with a control group consisting of no treatment or non‐exercise intervention (such as medication, patient education) that measured either pain or function and at least one psychosocial outcome (self‐efficacy, depression, anxiety, quality of life). Participants had to be aged 45 years or older, with a clinical diagnosis of OA (as defined by the study) or self‐reported chronic hip or knee (or both) pain (defined as more than six months' duration).To be included in the qualitative synthesis, studies had to have reported people's opinions and experiences of exercise‐based programmes (e.g. their views, understanding, experiences and beliefs about the utility of exercise in the management of chronic pain/OA).
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Surgery for trigger finger
We included randomised or quasi‐randomised controlled trials that assessed adults with trigger finger and compared any type of surgical treatment with each other or with any other non‐surgical intervention. The major outcomes were the resolution of trigger finger, pain, hand function, participant‐reported treatment success or satisfaction, recurrence of triggering, adverse events and neurovascular injury.
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Back Schools for chronic non‐specific low back pain
We included only RCTs and quasi‐RCTs evaluating pain, disability, and/or work status as outcomes. The primary outcomes for this update were pain and disability, and the secondary outcomes were work status and adverse events.
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Celecoxib for rheumatoid arthritis
We included prospective randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared oral celecoxib (200 mg and 400 mg daily) versus no intervention, placebo or a traditional NSAID (tNSAID) in people with confirmed rheumatoid arthritis, of any age and either sex. We excluded studies with fewer than 50 participants in each arm or had durations of fewer than four weeks treatment.
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Celecoxib for osteoarthritis
We included published studies (full reports in a peer reviewed journal) of prospective randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared oral celecoxib versus no intervention, placebo or another traditional NSAID (tNSAID) in participants with clinically‐ or radiologically‐confirmed primary OA of the knee or hip, or both knee and hip.
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Exercise for hand osteoarthritis
All randomised and controlled clinical trials comparing therapeutic exercise versus no exercise or comparing different exercise programmes.
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Stretch for the treatment and prevention of contractures
We included randomised controlled trials and controlled clinical trials of stretch applied for the purpose of treating or preventing contractures.
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Surgical options for lumbar spinal stenosis
This review included only randomised controlled trials that investigated the efficacy and safety of surgery compared with no treatment, placebo or sham surgery, or with another surgical technique in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis.
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Bioabsorbable versus metallic interference screws for graft fixation in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction
We included randomised controlled trials and quasi‐randomised trials comparing bioabsorbable with metallic interferences screws in ACL reconstruction. The main outcomes sought were subjective‐rated knee function, failure of treatment, and activity level.
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Electrotherapy modalities for rotator cuff disease
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi‐randomised trials, including adults with rotator cuff disease (e.g. subacromial impingement syndrome, rotator cuff tendinitis, calcific tendinitis), and comparing any electrotherapy modality with placebo, no intervention, a different electrotherapy modality or any other intervention (e.g. glucocorticoid injection). Trials investigating whether electrotherapy modalities were more effective than placebo or no treatment, or were an effective addition to another physical therapy intervention (e.g. manual therapy or exercise) were the main comparisons of interest. Main outcomes of interest were overall pain, function, pain on motion, patient‐reported global assessment of treatment success, quality of life and the number of participants experiencing adverse events.
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Biologic interventions for fatigue in rheumatoid arthritis
We included randomised controlled trials if they evaluated a biologic intervention in people with rheumatoid arthritis and had self reported fatigue as an outcome measure.
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Non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs for chronic low back pain
We included RCTs (double‐blind and single‐blind) of NSAIDs used to treat people with chronic low back pain.
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Surgery for Dupuytren's contracture of the fingers
We included randomised clinical trials and controlled clinical trials in which groups received surgical intervention for Dupuytren's disease of the index, middle, ring or little finger versus control, or versus another intervention (surgical or otherwise). We excluded the thumb, as cords form on the radial aspect of the thumb and thus are not readily accessible in terms of angular deformity. Furthermore, thumb disease is rare.
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High‐intensity versus low‐intensity physical activity or exercise in people with hip or knee osteoarthritis
We included randomized controlled trials of people with knee or hip osteoarthritis that compared high‐ versus low‐intensity physical activity or exercise programs between the experimental and control group.High‐intensity physical activity or exercise programs training had to refer to an increase in the overall amount of training time (frequency, duration, number of sessions) or the amount of work (strength, number of repetitions) or effort/energy expenditure (exertion, heart rate, effort).
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Radiofrequency denervation for chronic low back pain
We included RCTs of RF denervation for patients with CLBP who had a positive response to a diagnostic block or discography. We applied no language or date restrictions.
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Intra‐articular corticosteroid for knee osteoarthritis
We included randomised or quasi‐randomised controlled trials that compared intra‐articular corticosteroids with sham injection or no treatment in people with knee osteoarthritis. We applied no language restrictions.
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Non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for axial spondyloarthritis (ankylosing spondylitis and non‐radiographic axial spondyloarthritis)
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi‐RCTs of NSAIDs versus placebo or any comparator in adults with axSpA and observational cohort studies studying the long term effect (≥ six months) of NSAIDs on radiographic progression or adverse events (AEs). The main comparions were traditional or COX‐2 NSAIDs versus placebo. The major outcomes were pain, Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI), Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index (BASFI), Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Metrology Index (BASMI), radiographic progression, number of withdrawals due to AEs and number of serious AEs
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TNF‐alpha inhibitors for ankylosing spondylitis
Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing adalimumab, etanercept, golimumab and infliximab to placebo, other drugs or usual care in patients with ankylosing spondylitis, reported in abstract or full‐text.
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Mobile bearing vs fixed bearing prostheses for posterior cruciate retaining total knee arthroplasty for postoperative functional status in patients with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
We selected randomised controlled trials comparing mobile bearing with fixed bearing prostheses in cruciate retaining TKA among patients with osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, using functional or clinical outcome measures and follow‐up of at least six months.
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Rituximab for rheumatoid arthritis
All controlled trials comparing treatment with rituximab as monotherapy or in combination with any disease modifying anti‐rheumatic drug (DMARD) (traditional or biologic) versus placebo or other DMARD (traditional or biologic) in adult patients with active RA.
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Exercise for osteoarthritis of the knee
All randomised controlled trials (RCTs) randomly assigning individuals and comparing groups treated with some form of land‐based therapeutic exercise (as opposed to exercise conducted in the water) with a non‐exercise group or a non‐treatment control group.
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Sulfasalazine for ankylosing spondylitis
We evaluated randomized and quasi‐randomized trials examining the benefits and harms of sulfasalazine on AS.
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Uricosuric medications for chronic gout
We considered all randomised controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi‐randomised controlled trials (controlled clinical trials (CCTs)) that compared uricosuric medications (benzbromarone, probenecid or sulphinpyrazone) alone or in combination with another therapy (placebo or other active uric acid‐lowering medication, or non‐pharmacological treatment) in adults with chronic gout for inclusion.
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Electrotherapy modalities for adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder)
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and controlled clinical trials using a quasi‐randomised method of allocation that included adults with adhesive capsulitis and compared any electrotherapy modality to placebo, no treatment, a different electrotherapy modality, or any other intervention. The two main questions of the review focused on whether electrotherapy modalities are effective compared to placebo or no treatment, or if they are an effective adjunct to manual therapy or exercise (or both). The main outcomes of interest were participant‐reported pain relief of 30% or greater, overall pain, function, global assessment of treatment success, active shoulder abduction, quality of life, and the number of participants experiencing any adverse event.
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Interleukin‐1 inhibitors for acute gout
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi‐randomised clinical trials (controlled clinical trials (CCTs)) assessing an interleukin‐1 inhibitor (anakinra, canakinumab or rilonacept) against placebo or another active treatment (colchicine, paracetamol, NSAIDs, glucocorticoids (systemic or intra‐articular), adrenocorticotropin hormone, a different interleukin‐1 blocking agent or a combination of any of the above) in adults with acute gout.
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Manual therapy and exercise for adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder)
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi‐randomised trials, including adults with adhesive capsulitis, and comparing any manual therapy or exercise intervention versus placebo, no intervention, a different type of manual therapy or exercise or any other intervention. Interventions included mobilisation, manipulation and supervised or home exercise, delivered alone or in combination. Trials investigating the primary or adjunct effect of a combination of manual therapy and exercise were the main comparisons of interest. Main outcomes of interest were participant‐reported pain relief of 30% or greater, overall pain (mean or mean change), function, global assessment of treatment success, active shoulder abduction, quality of life and the number of participants experiencing adverse events.
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Diacerein for osteoarthritis
Studies were included if they were randomised or quasi‐randomised controlled trials that compared diacerein with placebo or another active pharmacological intervention in participants with OA.
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Self‐management education programmes for osteoarthritis
Randomised controlled trials of self‐management education programmes in people with osteoarthritis were included. Studies with participants receiving passive recipients of care and studies comparing one type of programme versus another were excluded.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Rehabilitation following surgery for lumbar spinal stenosis
We considered randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that compared the effectiveness of active rehabilitation versus usual care in adults (> 18 years of age) with confirmed lumbar spinal stenosis who had undergone spinal decompressive surgery (with or without fusion) for the first time.
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Lifestyle interventions for acute gout
Studies were included if they were randomised or quasi‐randomised controlled trials which compared lifestyle interventions to another therapy (active or placebo) in patients with acute gout. Outcomes of interest were the change in participant‐reported pain in the target joint(s), target joint inflammation and function, health‐related quality of life (HRQoL), patient global assessment, study participant withdrawals due to adverse events (AEs) and serious adverse events (SAEs).
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Non‐pharmacological interventions for fatigue in rheumatoid arthritis
Randomised controlled trials were included if they evaluated a non‐pharmacological intervention in people with rheumatoid arthritis with self‐reported fatigue as an outcome measure.
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Erythropoiesis‐stimulating agents for anemia in rheumatoid arthritis
We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in patients aged 16 years or over, with a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis affected by anemia. We considered health‐related quality of life, fatigue and safety as the primary outcomes.
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Treatments for alopecia areata: a network meta‐analysis
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that evaluated classical immunosuppressants, biologics, small molecule inhibitors, contact immunotherapy, hair growth stimulants, and other therapies in paediatric and adult populations with AA.
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Systemic pharmacological treatments for chronic plaque psoriasis: a network meta‐analysis
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of systemic treatments in adults over 18 years with moderate‐to‐severe plaque psoriasis, at any stage of treatment, compared to placebo or another active agent. The primary outcomes were: proportion of participants who achieved clear or almost clear skin, that is, at least Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) 90; proportion of participants with serious adverse events (SAEs) at induction phase (8 to 24 weeks after randomisation).
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Negative pressure wound therapy for treating pressure ulcers
We included published and unpublished randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the effects of NPWT with alternative treatments or different types of NPWT in the treatment of adults with pressure ulcers (stage II or above).
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Silicone gel sheeting for treating keloid scars
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that recruited people with any keloid scars and assessed the effectiveness of SGS.
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Dressings and topical agents for the management of open wounds after surgical treatment for sacrococcygeal pilonidal sinus
We included parallel‐group randomised controlled trials (RCTs) only. We included studies with participants who had undergone any type of sacrococcygeal pilonidal sinus disease surgery and were left with an open wound.
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Pressure redistributing static chairs for preventing pressure ulcers
We sought to include published or unpublished randomised controlled trials that assessed pressure redistributing static chairs in the prevention or management of pressure ulcers.
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Silicone gel sheeting for treating hypertrophic scars
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that enrolled people with any hypertrophic scars and assessed the use of SGS.
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Botulinum toxin type A for facial wrinkles
We included RCTs with over 50 participants, comparing BontA versus placebo, other types of BontA, or fillers (hyaluronic acid), for treating facial wrinkles in adults.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Topical benzoyl peroxide for acne
We included RCTs that compared topical BPO used alone (including different formulations and concentrations of BPO) or as part of combination treatment against placebo, no treatment, or other active topical medications for clinically diagnosed acne (used alone or in combination with other topical drugs not containing BPO) on the face or trunk.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Hygiene and emollient interventions for maintaining skin integrity in older people in hospital and residential care settings
Randomised controlled trials comparing hygiene and emollient interventions versus placebo, no intervention, or standard practices for older people aged ≥ 60 years in hospital or residential care settings.
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Interventions for chronic palmoplantar pustulosis
We considered RCTs including people with palmoplantar pustulosis or chronic palmoplantar pustular psoriasis assessing topical therapy, systemic therapy, combinations of topical or systemic therapies, or non‐pharmacological therapies compared with placebo, no intervention, or each other.
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Topical and device‐based treatments for fungal infections of the toenails
Randomised controlled trials of topical and device‐based therapies for onychomycosis in participants with toenail onychomycosis, confirmed by positive cultures, direct microscopy, or histological nail examination. Eligible comparators were placebo, vehicle, no treatment, or an active topical or device‐based treatment.
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Lifestyle changes for treating psoriasis
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of lifestyle changes (either alone or in combination) for treating psoriasis in people diagnosed by a healthcare professional. Treatment had to be given for at least 12 weeks. Eligible comparisons were no lifestyle changes or another active intervention.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Interventions for hand eczema
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that compared interventions for hand eczema, regardless of hand eczema type and other affected sites, versus no treatment, placebo, vehicle, or active treatments.