anurajms/meta_analysis huggingface dataset:
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Endoluminal interventions versus surgical interventions for stenosis in vein grafts following infrainguinal bypass
We aimed to include all published and unpublished randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that compared endoluminal interventions versus surgical intervention for people with vein graft stenosis following infrainguinal bypass.
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Thrombolytic therapy for pulmonary embolism
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that compared thrombolytic therapy followed by heparin versus heparin alone, heparin plus placebo, or surgical intervention for people with acute PE (massive/submassive). We did not include trials comparing two different thrombolytic agents or different doses of the same thrombolytic drug.
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Mobile phone‐based interventions for improving adherence to medication prescribed for the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease in adults
We included randomised controlled trials investigating interventions delivered wholly or partly by mobile phones to improve adherence to cardiovascular medications prescribed for the primary prevention of CVD. We only included trials with a minimum of one‐year follow‐up in order that the outcome measures related to longer‐term, sustained medication adherence behaviours and outcomes. Eligible comparators were usual care or control groups receiving no mobile phone‐delivered component of the intervention.
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Antibiotics for secondary prevention of coronary heart disease
Randomised clinical trials assessing the effects of antibiotics versus placebo or no intervention for secondary prevention of coronary heart disease in adult participants (≥18 years). Trials were included irrespective of setting, blinding, publication status, publication year, language, and reporting of our outcomes.
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Surgical and radiological interventions for treating symptomatic extracranial cervical artery dissection
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and controlled clinical trials (CCTs) of either surgical or endovascular intervention for the management of symptomatic CeAD were eligible for inclusion. Only studies with anticoagulants or antiplatelet treatment as the control group were included. Two review authors planned to independently extract data.
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Long‐term effects of weight‐reducing drugs in people with hypertension
Randomised controlled trials of at least 24 weeks' duration in adults with hypertension that compared approved long‐term weight‐loss medications to placebo.
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Blood pressure targets in adults with hypertension
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing patients allocated to lower or to standard blood pressure targets (see above).
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Trypanocidal drugs for late‐stage, symptomatic Chagas disease (Trypanosoma cruzi infection)
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) assessing trypanocidal drugs versus placebo or no treatment for late‐stage, symptomatic Chagas disease and CCC.
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Angioplasty versus stenting for iliac artery lesions
We included all randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing percutaneous transluminal angioplasty and primary stenting for iliac artery occlusive disease. We excluded quasi‐randomised trials, case reports, case‐control or cohort studies. We did not exclude studies based on the language of publication.
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Inotropic agents and vasodilator strategies for the treatment of cardiogenic shock or low cardiac output syndrome
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) enrolling patients with AMI, HF or cardiac surgery complicated by CS or LCOS.
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Ivabradine as adjuvant treatment for chronic heart failure
We included randomised controlled trials in which adult participants diagnosed with chronic heart failure were randomly assigned to receive either ivabradine or placebo/usual care/no treatment. We distinguished between type of heart failure (heart failure with a reduced ejection fraction or heart failure with a preserved ejection fraction) as well as between duration of ivabradine treatment (short term (< 6 months) or long term (≥ 6 months)).
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Renin inhibitors versus angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors for primary hypertension
We included randomized, active‐controlled, double‐blinded studies (RCTs) with at least four weeks follow‐up in people with primary hypertension, which compared renin inhibitors with ACE inhibitors and reported morbidity, mortality, adverse events or blood pressure outcomes. We excluded people with proven secondary hypertension.
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Electromechanical‐assisted training for walking after stroke
We included all randomised controlled trials and randomised controlled cross‐over trials in people over the age of 18 years diagnosed with stroke of any severity, at any stage, in any setting, evaluating electromechanical‐ and robot‐assisted gait training versus normal care.
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PCSK9 monoclonal antibodies for the primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease
All parallel‐group and factorial randomised controlled trials (RCTs) with a follow‐up of at least 24 weeks and adult participants with or without a history of CVD were eligible if they compared PCSK9 inhibitors alirocumab or evolocumab to placebo or active treatments such as statins, ezetimibe, or a combination of these.
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Pentoxifylline for intermittent claudication
We included all double‐blind, randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing pentoxifylline versus placebo or any other pharmacological intervention in people with IC Fontaine stage II.
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Antiplatelet and anticoagulant agents for secondary prevention of stroke and other thromboembolic events in people with antiphospholipid syndrome
We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that evaluated any anticoagulant or AP agent, or both, in the secondary prevention of thrombosis in people with APS, according to the criteria valid when the study took place. We did not include studies specifically addressing women with obstetrical APS.
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Vena caval filters for the prevention of pulmonary embolism
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and controlled clinical trials (CCTs) that examined the efficacy of VCFs in preventing PE.
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Atherectomy for peripheral arterial disease
We included all randomised controlled trials that compared atherectomy with other established treatments. All participants had symptomatic PAD with either claudication or critical limb ischaemia and evidence of lower limb arterial disease.
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Motor imagery for gait rehabilitation after stroke
Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) using MI alone or associated with action observation or physical practice to improve gait in individuals after stroke. The critical outcome was the ability to walk, assessed using either a continuous variable (walking speed) or a dichotomous variable (dependence on personal assistance). Important outcomes included walking endurance, motor function, functional mobility, and adverse events.
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Presurgery exercise‐based conditioning interventions (prehabilitation) in adults undergoing lower limb surgery for peripheral arterial disease
We considered all published and unpublished randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing presurgery interventions and usual care. Primary outcomes were postoperative complications, mortality and readmission to hospital within 30 days of the surgical procedure.
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Alcohol intake reduction for controlling hypertension
We included randomised controlled trials with minimum 12 weeks duration and including 50 or more subjects per group with quantitative measurement of alcohol consumption and/or biological measurement of the outcomes of interest.Participants were adults (16 years of age or older) with systolic blood pressure (SBP) greater than 140 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) greater than 90 mmHg, and SBP ≥ 130 or DBP ≥ 80 mmHg in participants with diabetes. We included any intervention implemented to reduce their alcohol intake.
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Time course for blood pressure lowering of beta‐blockers with partial agonist activity
We sought to include all randomised and non‐randomised trials that assessed the hourly effect of BBPAA by ambulatory monitoring, with a minimum follow‐up of three weeks.
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Citicoline for treating people with acute ischemic stroke
We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in any setting including participants with acute ischemic stroke. Trials were eligible for inclusion if they compared citicoline versus placebo or no intervention.
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Modes of exercise training for intermittent claudication
We included parallel‐group randomised controlled trials comparing alternative modes of exercise training or combinations of exercise modes with a control group of supervised walking exercise in patients with clinically determined intermittent claudication. The supervised walking programme needed to be supervised at least twice a week for a consecutive six weeks of training.
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Setting and techniques for monitoring blood pressure during pregnancy
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) involving pregnant women, using validated BP devices in different settings or using different techniques.
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mHealth education interventions in heart failure
We included studies if they were conducted as a randomised controlled trial (RCT), involving adults (≥ 18 years) with a diagnosis of HF. We included trials comparing mHealth‐delivered education such as internet and web‐based education programmes for use on smartphones and tablets (including apps) and other mobile devices, SMS messages and social media‐delivered education programmes, versus usual HF care.
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Effect of alcohol on blood pressure
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing effects of a single dose of alcohol versus placebo on blood pressure (BP) or heart rate (HR) in adults (≥ 18 years of age).
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Surgery for small asymptomatic abdominal aortic aneurysms
We included randomised controlled trials where people with asymptomatic AAAs of 4.0 cm to 5.5 cm were randomly allocated to early repair or imaging‐based surveillance at least every six months. Outcomes had to include mortality or survival.
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Mechanical assist devices for acute cardiogenic shock
Randomised controlled trials on people with acute CS comparing mechanical assist devices with best current intensive care management, including intra‐aortic balloon pump and inotropic support.
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Mental practice for treating upper extremity deficits in individuals with hemiparesis after stroke
We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of adult participants with stroke who had deficits in upper extremity function (called upper extremity activity).
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A comparison of different antibiotic regimens for the treatment of infective endocarditis
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the effects of antibiotic regimens for treating definitive infective endocarditis diagnosed according to modified Duke's criteria. We considered all‐cause mortality, cure rates, and adverse events as the primary outcomes. We excluded people with possible infective endocarditis and pregnant women.
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Anti‐inflammatory therapy for preventing stroke and other vascular events after ischaemic stroke or transient ischaemic attack
We considered randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and cluster‐randomised controlled trials that evaluated anti‐inflammatory medications for prevention of major cardiovascular events following ischaemic stroke or TIA.
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Pharmacological, psychological and non‐invasive brain stimulation interventions for preventing depression after stroke
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing: 1) pharmacological interventions with placebo; 2) one of various forms of psychological therapy with usual care and/or attention control; 3) one of various forms of non‐invasive brain stimulation with sham stimulation or usual care; 4) a pharmacological intervention and one of various forms of psychological therapy with a pharmacological intervention and usual care and/or attention control; 5) non‐invasive brain stimulation and pharmacological intervention with a pharmacological intervention and sham stimulation or usual care; 6) pharmacological intervention and one of various forms of psychological therapy with placebo and psychological therapy; 7) pharmacological intervention and non‐invasive brain stimulation with placebo plus non‐invasive brain stimulation; 8) non‐invasive brain stimulation and one of various forms of psychological therapy versus non‐invasive brain stimulation plus usual care and/or attention control; and 9) non‐invasive brain stimulation and one of various forms of psychological therapy versus sham brain stimulation or usual care plus psychological therapy, with the intention of preventing depression after stroke.
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Pharmacological treatment for Buerger's disease
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) involving pharmacological agents used in the treatment of Buerger's disease.
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Interventions for sexual dysfunction following stroke
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that compared pharmacological treatments, mechanical devices, or complementary medicine interventions versus placebo. We also included other non‐pharmacological interventions (such as education or therapy), which were compared against usual care or different forms of intervention (such as different intensities) for treating sexual dysfunction in stroke survivors.
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Transverse versus vertical groin incision for femoral artery approach
We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi‐randomized trials (qRCTs) that compare transverse and vertical groin incision, during either endovascular or open surgery procedures.
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Low molecular weight heparin for prevention of microvascular occlusion in digital replantation
We included randomised or quasi‐randomised controlled trials comparing treatment with LMWH versus any other treatment in participants who received digital replantation following traumatic digital amputation.
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Treatment of distal deep vein thrombosis
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) for the treatment of distal DVT.
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Physical fitness training for stroke patients
Randomised trials comparing either cardiorespiratory training or resistance training, or both (mixed training), with usual care, no intervention, or a non‐exercise intervention in stroke survivors.
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Advance care planning for adults with heart failure
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that compared ACP with usual care in people with heart failure. Trials could have parallel group, cluster‐randomised, or cross‐over designs. We included interventions that implemented ACP, such as discussing and considering values, wishes, life goals, and preferences for future medical care. The study participants comprised adults (18 years of age or older) with heart failure.
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Carotid artery stenting versus endarterectomy for treatment of carotid artery stenosis
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing stenting with endarterectomy for symptomatic or asymptomatic atherosclerotic carotid stenosis. In addition, we included RCTs comparing carotid artery stenting with medical therapy alone.
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Anticoagulant treatment for subsegmental pulmonary embolism
We included randomised controlled trials of anticoagulation therapy versus control in patients with SSPE or incidental SSPE.
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First‐line combination therapy versus first‐line monotherapy for primary hypertension
We included randomised, double‐blind trials with at least 12 months' follow‐up in adults with primary hypertension (systolic blood pressure/diastolic blood pressure 140/90 mmHg or higher, or 130/80 mmHg or higher if participants had diabetes), which compared a combination of two first‐line antihypertensive drugs with monotherapy as initial treatment. Trials had to include at least 50 participants per group and report mortality, cardiovascular mortality, cardiovascular events, or serious adverse events.
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Dressings and topical agents for arterial leg ulcers
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs), or controlled clinical trials (CCTs) evaluating dressings and topical agents in the treatment of arterial leg ulcers were eligible for inclusion. We included participants with arterial leg ulcers irrespective of method of diagnosis. Trials that included participants with mixed arterio‐venous disease and diabetes were eligible for inclusion if they presented results separately for the different groups. All wound dressings and topical agents were eligible for inclusion in this review. We excluded trials which did not report on at least one of the primary outcomes (time to healing, proportion completely healed, or change in ulcer area).
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Motor neuroprosthesis for promoting recovery of function after stroke
Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and randomized controlled cross‐over trials comparing MN for improving activities and participation versus other assistive technology device or MN without electrical stimulus (stimulator is turned off), or no treatment, for people after stroke.
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Endovascular versus open repair of asymptomatic popliteal artery aneurysm
We included all randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing endovascular stent grafting versus conventional open surgical repair in patients undergoing unilateral or bilateral prophylactic repair of asymptomatic PAAs.
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Non‐vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) post‐percutaneous coronary intervention: a network meta‐analysis
We searched for randomised controlled trials (RCT) that compared NOACs and vitamin K antagonists for people with an indication for anticoagulation who underwent PCI.
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Transcatheter aortic valve implantation versus surgical aortic valve replacement for severe aortic stenosis in people with low surgical risk
We included RCTs that compared TAVI and SAVR in adults (18 years of age or older) with severe AS and low surgical risk.
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Beta‐blockers for suspected or diagnosed acute myocardial infarction
We included all randomised clinical trials assessing the effects of beta‐blockers versus placebo or no intervention in people with suspected or diagnosed acute myocardial infarction. Trials were included irrespective of trial design, setting, blinding, publication status, publication year, language, and reporting of our outcomes.
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Positive airway pressure therapy for the treatment of central sleep apnoea associated with heart failure
We excluded cross‐over trials and included individually randomised controlled trials, reported as full‐texts, those published as abstract only, and unpublished data.
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Cognitive rehabilitation for attention deficits following stroke
We included controlled clinical trials (CCTs) and randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of cognitive rehabilitation for impairments of attention for people with stroke. We did not consider listening to music, meditation, yoga, or mindfulness to be a form of cognitive rehabilitation. We only considered trials that selected people with demonstrable or self‐reported attentional deficits. The primary outcomes were measures of global attentional functions, and secondary outcomes were measures of attentional domains (i.e. alertness, selective attention, sustained attention, divided attention), functional abilities, mood, and quality of life.
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Combined proximal descending aortic endografting plus distal bare metal stenting (PETTICOAT technique) versus conventional proximal descending aortic stent graft repair for complicated type B aortic dissections
We considered all randomised controlled trials which compared the outcome of complicated type B aortic dissection, when treated by combined proximal descending aortic endografting plus distal bare metal stenting (PETTICOAT technique) versus conventional proximal descending aortic stent graft repair.
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Perioperative beta‐blockers for preventing surgery‐related mortality and morbidity in adults undergoing non‐cardiac surgery
We included RCTs and quasi‐randomized studies comparing beta‐blockers with a control (placebo or standard care) administered during the perioperative period to adults undergoing non‐cardiac surgery. If studies included surgery with different types of anaesthesia, we included them if 70% participants, or at least 100 participants, received general anaesthesia. We excluded studies in which all participants in the standard care control group were given a pharmacological agent that was not given to participants in the intervention group, studies in which all participants in the control group were given a beta‐blocker, and studies in which beta‐blockers were given with an additional agent (e.g. magnesium). We excluded studies that did not measure or report review outcomes.
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Perioperative beta‐blockers for preventing surgery‐related mortality and morbidity in adults undergoing cardiac surgery
We included RCTs and quasi‐randomized studies comparing beta‐blockers with a control (placebo or standard care) administered during the perioperative period to adults undergoing cardiac surgery. We excluded studies in which all participants in the standard care control group were given a pharmacological agent that was not given to participants in the intervention group, studies in which all participants in the control group were given a beta‐blocker, and studies in which beta‐blockers were given with an additional agent (e.g. magnesium). We excluded studies that did not measure or report review outcomes.
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Compression therapy for treating post‐thrombotic syndrome
We included trials that evaluated compression therapy for the treatment of PTS. The primary outcomes were severity of PTS and adverse effects. There were no restrictions on date or language. Two review authors (SA, DNK) independently assessed whether potentially relevant studies met the inclusion criteria.
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Antiarrhythmics for maintaining sinus rhythm after cardioversion of atrial fibrillation
Two authors independently selected randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing any antiarrhythmic drug with a control (no treatment, placebo, drugs for rate control) or with another antiarrhythmic drug in adults who had atrial fibrillation and in whom sinus rhythm was restored, spontaneously or by any intervention. We excluded postoperative atrial fibrillation.
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Interventions for visual field defects in people with stroke
Randomised trials in adults after stroke, where the intervention was specifically targeted at improving the visual field defect or improving the ability of the participant to cope with the visual field loss. The primary outcome was functional ability in activities of daily living and secondary outcomes included functional ability in extended activities of daily living, reading ability, visual field measures, balance, falls, depression and anxiety, discharge destination or residence after stroke, quality of life and social isolation, visual scanning, adverse events, and death.
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Stem cell transplantation for ischemic stroke
We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that recruited people with ischemic stroke, in any phase of the disease (acute, subacute or chronic), and an ischemic lesion confirmed by computerized tomography or magnetic resonance imaging scan. We included all types of stem cell transplantation, regardless of cell source (autograft, allograft, or xenograft; embryonic, fetal, or adult; from brain or other tissues), route of cell administration (systemic or local), and dosage. The primary outcome was efficacy (assessed as neurologic impairment or functional outcome) at longer term follow‐up (minimum six months). Secondary outcomes included post‐procedure safety outcomes (death, worsening of neurological deficit, infections, and neoplastic transformation).
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Prostacyclin for pulmonary arterial hypertension
We included any randomised controlled trials (RCTs) which compared prostacyclin, prostacyclin analogues or prostacyclin receptor agonists to control (placebo, any other treatment or usual care) for at least six weeks.
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Non‐invasive positive pressure ventilation (CPAP or bilevel NPPV) for cardiogenic pulmonary oedema
We included blinded or unblinded randomised controlled trials in adults with ACPE. Participants had to be randomised to NPPV (continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) or bilevel NPPV) plus standard medical care (SMC) compared with SMC alone.
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Epidural analgesia for adults undergoing cardiac surgery with or without cardiopulmonary bypass
We included all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) including adults undergoing any type of cardiac surgery under general anaesthesia and comparing epidural analgesia versus another modality of postoperative pain treatment. The primary outcome was mortality.
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Calcium antagonists for acute ischemic stroke
Randomized controlled trials comparing a calcium antagonist versus control in people with acute ischemic stroke.
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Exercise‐based cardiac rehabilitation for adult patients with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) if they investigated exercise‐based cardiac rehabilitation interventions compared with no intervention, treatment as usual or another rehabilitation programme. The trial participants were adults (aged 18 years or older), who had been treated with an ICD regardless of type or indication.
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Thoracic endovascular repair (TEVAR) versus open surgery for blunt traumatic thoracic aortic injury
We considered all published and unpublished randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing TEVAR and open surgery for BTAI.
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Drug‐eluting balloon angioplasty versus uncoated balloon angioplasty for the treatment of in‐stent restenosis of the femoropopliteal arteries
We included all randomized controlled trials that compared DEBs versus uncoated balloon angioplasty for treatment of in‐stent restenosis in the femoropopliteal arteries.
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Clinically‐indicated replacement versus routine replacement of peripheral venous catheters
We included randomised controlled trials that compared routine removal of PIVC with removal only when clinically indicated, in hospitalised or community‐dwelling patients receiving continuous or intermittent infusions.
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Disease management interventions for heart failure
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) with at least six months' follow‐up, comparing disease management interventions to usual care for adults who had been admitted to hospital at least once with a diagnosis of heart failure. There were three main types of intervention: case management; clinic‐based interventions; multidisciplinary interventions.
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Angioplasty versus stenting for infrapopliteal arterial lesions in chronic limb‐threatening ischaemia
We planned to include randomised or quasi‐randomised controlled trials comparing PTA versus PTA with a stent and including patients aged 18 years or over with CLTI. We defined CLTI as Fontaine stage III (ischaemic rest pain) and IV (ischaemic ulcers or gangrene) or consistent with Rutherford category 4 (ischaemic rest pain), 5 (minor tissue loss), and 6 (major tissue loss), with stenotic (> 50% luminal loss) or occluded infrapopliteal artery, including tibiofibular trunk, anterior tibial artery, posterior tibial artery, and fibular artery. We included all types of stents irrespective of design (e.g. bare‐metal, drug‐eluting, bio‐absorbable).
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Implantable cardiac defibrillators for people with non‐ischaemic cardiomyopathy
We included randomised controlled trials involving adults with chronic non‐ischaemic cardiomyopathy due to a left ventricular systolic dysfunction with an ejection fraction of 35% or less (New York Heart Association (NYHA) type I‐IV). Participants in the intervention arm should have received ICD in addition to optimal medical therapy, while those in the control arm received optimal medical therapy alone. We included studies with cardiac resynchronisation therapy when it was appropriately balanced in the experimental and control groups.
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Ezetimibe for the prevention of cardiovascular disease and all‐cause mortality events
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that compared ezetimibe versus placebo or ezetimibe plus other lipid‐modifying drugs versus other lipid‐modifying drugs alone in adults, with or without CVD, and which had a follow‐up of at least 12 months.
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First‐line drugs inhibiting the renin angiotensin system versus other first‐line antihypertensive drug classes for hypertension
We included randomized, active‐controlled, double‐blinded studies (RCTs) with at least six months follow‐up in people with elevated blood pressure (≥ 130/85 mmHg), which compared first‐line RAS inhibitors with other first‐line antihypertensive drug classes and reported morbidity and mortality or blood pressure outcomes. We excluded people with proven secondary hypertension.
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Stem cell therapy for treatment of thromboangiitis obliterans (Buerger's disease)
Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi‐RCTs of stem cell therapy in thromboangiitis obliterans (Buerger's disease).
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Gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptor agonists for acute stroke
We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating GABA receptor agonists versus placebo for people with acute stroke (within 12 hours after stroke onset), with the primary outcomes of efficacy and safety.
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Percutaneous vascular interventions versus intravenous thrombolytic treatment for acute ischaemic stroke
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that directly compared a percutaneous vascular intervention with intravenous thrombolytic treatment in people with acute ischaemic stroke.
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Very early versus delayed mobilisation after stroke
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of people with acute stroke, comparing an intervention group that started out‐of‐bed mobilisation within 48 hours of stroke, and aimed to reduce time‐to‐first mobilisation, with or without an increase in the amount or frequency (or both) of mobilisation activities, with usual care, where time‐to‐first mobilisation was commenced later.
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Antihypertensive drug therapy for mild to moderate hypertension during pregnancy
All randomised trials evaluating any antihypertensive drug treatment for mild to moderate hypertension during pregnancy, defined as systolic blood pressure 140 to 169 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure 90 to 109 mmHg. Comparisons were of one or more antihypertensive drug(s) with placebo, with no antihypertensive drug, or with another antihypertensive drug, and where treatment was planned to continue for at least seven days.
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Exercise‐based cardiac rehabilitation for people with implantable ventricular assist devices
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) regardless of cluster or individual randomisation, and full‐text studies, those published as abstract only, and unpublished data were eligible. However, only individually RCTs and full‐text publications were included.
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Electromechanical and robot‐assisted arm training for improving activities of daily living, arm function, and arm muscle strength after stroke
Randomised controlled trials comparing electromechanical and robot‐assisted arm training for recovery of arm function with other rehabilitation or placebo interventions, or no treatment, for people after stroke.
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Mechanical versus manual chest compressions for cardiac arrest
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs), cluster‐RCTs and quasi‐randomised studies comparing mechanical chest compressions versus manual chest compressions during CPR for patients with cardiac arrest.
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Endovascular coiling versus neurosurgical clipping for people with aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage
We included randomised trials comparing endovascular coiling with neurosurgical clipping in people with SAH from a ruptured aneurysm.
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Surgery versus thrombolysis for initial management of acute limb ischaemia
All randomised controlled studies comparing thrombolysis and surgery for initial treatment of acute limb ischaemia.
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Activity monitors for increasing physical activity in adult stroke survivors
We included all randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and randomised cross‐over trials that included use of activity monitors versus no intervention, another type of intervention, or other activity monitor. Participants were aged 18 years or older with a diagnosis of stroke, in hospital or living in the community. Primary outcome measures were steps per day and time in moderate‐to‐vigorous intensity activity. Secondary outcomes were sedentary time, time spent in light intensity physical activity, walking duration, fatigue, mood, quality of life, community participation and adverse events. We excluded upper limb monitors that only measured upper limb activity.
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Blood pressure‐lowering treatment for preventing recurrent stroke, major vascular events, and dementia in patients with a history of stroke or transient ischaemic attack
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of BPLDs started at least 48 hours after stroke or TIA.
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Continuation versus discontinuation of antiplatelet therapy for bleeding and ischaemic events in adults undergoing non‐cardiac surgery
We included randomized controlled trials of adults who were taking single or dual antiplatelet therapy, for at least two weeks, and were scheduled for elective non‐cardiac surgery. Included participants had at least one cardiac risk factor. We planned to include quasi‐randomized studies.We excluded people scheduled for minor surgeries under local anaesthetic or sedation in which bleeding that required transfusion or additional surgery was unlikely. We included studies which compared perioperative continuation of antiplatelet therapy versus discontinuation of antiplatelet therapy or versus substitution of antiplatelet therapy with a placebo for at least five days before surgery.
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Antiplatelet and anticoagulant agents for primary prevention of thrombosis in individuals with antiphospholipid antibodies
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that compared any antiplatelet or anticoagulant agents, or their combinations, at any dose and mode of delivery with placebo, no intervention, or other intervention. We also included RCTs that compared antiplatelet or anticoagulant agents with each other or that compared two different doses of the same drug. We included studies performed in people of any age and with no history of thrombosis (as defined by APS Sapporo classification criteria or updated Sydney classification criteria), but with aPL antibodies confirmed on at last two separate measurements. The studies included both pregnant women who tested positive for aPL antibodies and had a history of recurrent obstetric complications, as well as non‐pregnancy related cases with positive screening for antibodies, in accordance with the criteria mentioned above.
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Mirror therapy for improving motor function after stroke
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and randomised cross‐over trials comparing mirror therapy with any control intervention for people after stroke.
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Remote ischaemic conditioning for preventing and treating ischaemic stroke
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing RIC with sham RIC or medical management in people with ischaemic stroke or at risk of ischaemic stroke.
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Controlled hypotension versus normotensive resuscitation strategy for people with ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm
We sought all published and unpublished randomised controlled trial (RCTs) that compared controlled hypotension and normotensive resuscitation strategies for the management of shock in patients with ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Extracorporeal shock wave therapy for the healing and management of venous leg ulcers
We considered all published and unpublished randomised controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the effectiveness of extracorporeal shock wave therapy in the healing and management of venous leg ulceration.
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Transradial versus transfemoral approach for diagnostic coronary angiography and percutaneous coronary intervention in people with coronary artery disease
We included randomised controlled trials that compared transradial and transfemoral approaches in adults (18 years of age or older) undergoing diagnostic CA or PCI (or both) for CAD.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
First‐line drugs for hypertension
Randomized trials (RCT) of at least one year duration, comparing one of six major drug classes with a placebo or no treatment, in adult patients with blood pressure over 140/90 mmHg at baseline. The majority (over 70%) of the patients in the treatment group were taking the drug class of interest after one year. We included trials with both hypertensive and normotensive patients in this review if the majority (over 70%) of patients had elevated blood pressure, or the trial separately reported outcome data on patients with elevated blood pressure.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Supervised exercise therapy versus home‐based exercise therapy versus walking advice for intermittent claudication
We included parallel‐group randomized controlled trials comparing SET programs with HBET programs and WA in participants with IC. We excluded studies in which control groups did not receive exercise or walking advice (maintained normal physical activity). We also excluded studies comparing exercise with percutaneous transluminal angioplasty, bypass surgery, or drug therapy.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Perioperative beta‐blockers for preventing surgery‐related mortality and morbidity
We included randomized controlled trials if participants were randomly assigned to a beta‐blocker group or a control group (standard care or placebo). Surgery (any type) had to be performed with all or at least a significant proportion of participants under general anaesthesia.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Factor Xa inhibitors versus vitamin K antagonists for preventing cerebral or systemic embolism in patients with atrial fibrillation
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that directly compared the effects of long‐term treatment (lasting more than four weeks) with factor Xa inhibitors versus VKAs for preventing cerebral and systemic embolism in people with AF.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Fluvastatin for lowering lipids
Randomised placebo‐controlled and uncontrolled before and after trials evaluating the dose response of different fixed doses of fluvastatin on blood lipids over a duration of three to 12 weeks in participants of any age with and without evidence of cardiovascular disease.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Treatment for superficial thrombophlebitis of the leg
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating topical, medical, and surgical treatments for ST of the legs that included people with a clinical diagnosis of ST of the legs or objective diagnosis of a thrombus in a superficial vein.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Graft type for femoro‐popliteal bypass surgery
We included randomised trials comparing at least two different types of femoro‐popliteal grafts for arterial reconstruction in patients with femoro‐popliteal ischaemia. Randomised controlled trials comparing bypass grafting to angioplasty or to other interventions were not included.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Pulmonary artery perfusion versus no perfusion during cardiopulmonary bypass for open heart surgery in adults
We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared pulmonary artery perfusion versus no perfusion during CPB in adult patients (≧ 18 years).
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Exercise‐based cardiac rehabilitation for adults with stable angina
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) with a follow‐up period of at least six months, which compared structured exercise‐based CR with usual care for people with stable angina.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Antibiotic therapy for preventing infections in people with acute stroke
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of preventive antibiotic therapy versus control (placebo or open control) in people with acute ischaemic or haemorrhagic stroke.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Prostanoids for critical limb ischaemia
Randomised controlled trials describing the efficacy and safety of prostanoids compared with placebo or other pharmacological control treatments for patients presenting with CLI without chance of rescue or reconstructive intervention.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Home versus in‐patient treatment for deep vein thrombosis
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) examining home versus hospital treatment for DVT, in which DVT was clinically confirmed and was treated with LMWHs or UFH.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Exercise for intermittent claudication
Randomised controlled trials of an exercise regimen versus control or versus medical therapy for people with IC due to peripheral arterial disease (PAD). We included any exercise programme or regimen used for treatment of IC, such as walking, skipping, and running. Inclusion of trials was not affected by duration, frequency, or intensity of the exercise programme. Outcome measures collected included treadmill walking distance (time to onset of pain or pain‐free walking distance and maximum walking time or maximum walking distance), ankle brachial index (ABI), quality of life, morbidity, or amputation; if none of these was reported, we did not include the trial in this review.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Secondary prevention of recurrent venous thromboembolism after initial oral anticoagulation therapy in patients with unprovoked venous thromboembolism
We included randomised controlled trials in which patients with a first, symptomatic, objectively confirmed, unprovoked VTE, who had been initially treated with anticoagulants, were randomised to extended prophylaxis (vitamin K antagonists (VKAs), antiplatelet agents, or DOACs) versus no prophylaxis or placebo. We also included trials that compared one type of extended prophylaxis versus another type of extended prophylaxis.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Clopidogrel plus aspirin versus aspirin alone for preventing cardiovascular events
We included all randomised controlled trials comparing over 30 days use of aspirin plus clopidogrel with aspirin plus placebo or aspirin alone in people with coronary disease, ischaemic cerebrovascular disease, peripheral arterial disease, or at high risk of atherothrombotic disease. We excluded studies including only people with coronary drug‐eluting stent (DES) or non‐DES, or both.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Calcium channel blockers for primary and secondary Raynaud's phenomenon
All randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing calcium channel blockers versus placebo.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Thrombolysis for acute upper extremity deep vein thrombosis
We planned to include randomised clinical trials irrespective of publication type, publication date and language that investigated the effects of thrombolytics added to anticoagulation, thrombolysis versus anticoagulation, or thrombolysis versus any other type of medical intervention for the treatment of acute upper extremity deep vein thrombosis.