anurajms/meta_analysis huggingface dataset:
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Band ligation versus beta‐blockers for primary prophylaxis of oesophageal variceal bleeding in children with chronic liver disease or portal vein thrombosis
We planned to include randomised clinical trials irrespective of blinding, language, or publication status for assessment of benefits and harms. We planned to also include quasi‐randomised and other observational studies retrieved with the searches for randomised clinical trials for report of harm.
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Certolizumab pegol for induction of remission in Crohn's disease
We included randomized controlled trials comparing CZP with placebo or no treatment in active CD patients.
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Plasma expanders for people with cirrhosis and large ascites treated with abdominal paracentesis
Randomised clinical trials, no matter their design or year of publication, publication status, and language, assessing the use of any type of plasma expander versus placebo, no intervention, or a different plasma expander in connection with paracentesis for ascites in people with cirrhosis. We considered quasi‐randomised, retrieved with the searches for randomised clinical trials only, for reports on harms.
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Lateral pararectal versus transrectal stoma placement for prevention of parastomal herniation
Randomized and non‐randomized studies comparing lateral pararectal versus transrectal stoma placement with regard to parastomal herniation and other stoma‐related complications.
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Adjuvant therapy with antidepressants for the management of inflammatory bowel disease
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies comparing any type of antidepressant to placebo, no treatment or an active therapy for IBD were included.
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Glucocorticosteroids for people with alcoholic hepatitis
Randomised clinical trials assessing glucocorticosteroids versus placebo or no intervention in people with alcoholic hepatitis, irrespective of year, language of publication, or format. We considered trials with adults diagnosed with alcoholic hepatitis, which could have been established through clinical or biochemical diagnostic criteria or both. We defined alcoholic hepatitis as mild (Maddrey's score less than 32) and severe (Maddrey's score 32 or more). We allowed cointerventions in the trial groups, provided they were similar.
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N‐acetylcysteine as an adjuvant therapy for Helicobacter pylori eradication
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of any antibiotic regimen plus NAC, in adults infected with H pylori. To be included, trials had to use a control consisting of the same antibiotic regimen with or without placebo. Outcomes of interest were eradication rates, and gastrointestinal, toxic, and allergic adverse events. Reporting of the primary outcomes listed here was not an inclusion criterion for the review.
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Antibiotics for induction and maintenance of remission in Crohn's disease
RCTs comparing antibiotics to placebo or an active comparator in adult (> 15 years) CD patients were considered for inclusion.
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Acetyl‐L‐carnitine for patients with hepatic encephalopathy
We searched for randomised clinical trials in any setting, recruiting people with hepatic encephalopathy. Trials were eligible for inclusion if they compared acetyl‐L‐carnitine plus standard care (e.g. antibiotics, lactulose) versus placebo or no acetyl‐L‐carnitine plus standard care. We are well aware that by selecting randomised clinical trials, we placed greater focus on potential benefits than on potential harms.
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Cannabis for the treatment of ulcerative colitis
Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing any form or dose of cannabis or its cannabinoid derivatives (natural or synthetic) to placebo or an active therapy for adults (> 18 years) with UC were included.
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Surgical portosystemic shunts versus transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt for variceal haemorrhage in people with cirrhosis
Randomised clinical trials comparing surgical portosystemic shunts versus TIPS for the treatment of refractory or recurrent variceal haemorrhage in people with cirrhotic portal hypertension.
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Swallowing therapy for dysphagia in acute and subacute stroke
We sought to include randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of interventions for people with dysphagia and recent stroke (within six months).
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Carvedilol versus traditional, non‐selective beta‐blockers for adults with cirrhosis and gastroesophageal varices
We included randomised clinical trials comparing carvedilol versus traditional, non‐selective beta‐blockers, irrespective of publication status, blinding, or language. We included trials evaluating both primary and secondary prevention of upper gastrointestinal bleeding in adults with cirrhosis and verified gastroesophageal varices.
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Prokinetics for functional dyspepsia
We included studies that were parallel group RCTs comparing one prokinetic with either placebo or another prokinetic of the same or different class for the treatment of FD. Studies involved adults who presented with dyspepsia symptoms and who had negative or insignificant findings on endoscopy as well as no other organic and metabolic disorders. Studies only including participants with primarily reflux or heartburn symptoms were excluded.
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Modifying the consistency of food and fluids for swallowing difficulties in dementia
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs), quasi‐RCTs and cluster‐RCTs published in any language that measured any of the outcomes of interest. We included trials with adults with a clinical diagnosis of dementia with symptoms and signs of dysphagia confirmed on instrumental assessment. We included participants with all types, stages and severities of dementia. Control groups received either no intervention or interventions not involving diet modification or modification to sensory properties of food.
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Mesh versus non‐mesh for inguinal and femoral hernia repair
We included randomised controlled trials of mesh compared to non‐mesh inguinal or femoral hernia repairs in adults over the age of 18 years.
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Epidural analgesia versus patient‐controlled intravenous analgesia for pain following intra‐abdominal surgery in adults
We included all parallel and cross‐over randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing CEA or PCEA (or both) with IVPCA for postoperative pain relief in adults following intra‐abdominal surgery.
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Surgical portosystemic shunts versus devascularisation procedures for prevention of variceal rebleeding in people with hepatosplenic schistosomiasis
Randomised clinical trials comparing surgical portosystemic shunts versus oesophagogastric devascularisation procedures for the prevention of variceal rebleeding in people with hepatosplenic schistosomiasis.
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Prosthetic mesh placement for the prevention of parastomal herniation
We considered for inclusion all randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of prosthetic mesh (including biological/composite mesh) placement versus a control group (no mesh) for the prevention of parastomal hernia.
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Glucocorticosteroids for infants with biliary atresia following Kasai portoenterostomy
We included randomised clinical trials which assessed glucocorticosteroids for infants who have undergone Kasai portoenterostomy. For harm, we also considered quasi‐randomised studies, observational studies, and case‐control studies that were identified amongst the search results.
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Withdrawal of immunosuppressant or biologic therapy for patients with quiescent Crohn's disease
Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and prospective cohort studies that followed patients for a minimum duration of six months after drug discontinuation were considered for inclusion. The patient population of interest was adults (> 18 years) with CD (as defined by conventional clinical, endoscopic or histologic criteria) who had achieved remission while receiving immunosuppressant or biologic drugs administered alone or in combination. Patients then discontinued the drug regimen following a period of maintenance therapy of at least six months. The comparison was usual care (i.e. continuation of the drug regimen).
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Interventions for paracetamol (acetaminophen) overdose
Randomised clinical trials assessing benefits and harms of interventions in people who have ingested a paracetamol overdose. The interventions could have been gastric lavage, ipecacuanha, or activated charcoal, or various extracorporeal treatments, or antidotes. The interventions could have been compared with placebo, no intervention, or to each other in differing regimens.
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Feed thickener for infants up to six months of age with gastro‐oesophageal reflux
We included randomised controlled trials if they examined the effects of feed thickeners as compared to unthickened feeds (no treatment or placebo) in treating GOR in term infants up to six months of age or six months of corrected gestational age for those born preterm.
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Laparoscopic versus open resection for sigmoid diverticulitis
We included randomised controlled trials comparing elective or emergency laparoscopic sigmoid resection versus open surgical resection for acute sigmoid diverticulitis.
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Proton pump inhibitors for functional dyspepsia
All randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing any PPI with placebo, H2 receptor antagonists (H2RAs) or prokinetics for the treatment of FD of at least two weeks' duration. Participants were adults (aged 16 years or greater) with an adequate diagnosis of FD (any validated criteria such as Rome I, II, III or Lancet Working Group).
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Closure methods of the appendix stump for complications during laparoscopic appendectomy
We included all randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that compared mechanical appendix stump closure (stapler, clips, or electrothermal devices) versus ligation (Endoloop, Roeder loop, or intracorporeal knot techniques) for uncomplicated appendicitis.
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Mesalamine (5‐ASA) for the prevention of recurrent diverticulitis
We included randomised controlled clinical trials comparing the efficacy of 5‐ASA versus placebo or another active drug for prevention of recurrent diverticulitis.
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Needle syringe programmes and opioid substitution therapy for preventing hepatitis C transmission in people who inject drugs
We included prospective and retrospective cohort studies, cross‐sectional surveys, case‐control studies and randomised controlled trials that measured exposure to NSP and/or OST against no intervention or a reduced exposure and reported HCV incidence as an outcome in people who inject drugs. We defined interventions as current OST (within previous 6 months), lifetime use of OST and high NSP coverage (regular attendance at an NSP or all injections covered by a new needle/syringe) or low NSP coverage (irregular attendance at an NSP or less than 100% of injections covered by a new needle/syringe) compared with no intervention or reduced exposure.
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Direct‐acting antivirals for chronic hepatitis C
Randomised clinical trials comparing DAAs versus no intervention or placebo, alone or with co‐interventions, in adults with chronic HCV. We included trials irrespective of publication type, publication status, and language.
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Ursodeoxycholic acid for cystic fibrosis‐related liver disease
Randomised controlled trials of the use of ursodeoxycholic acid for at least three months compared with placebo or no additional treatment in people with cystic fibrosis.
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Flumazenil versus placebo or no intervention for people with cirrhosis and hepatic encephalopathy
We included randomised clinical trials regardless of publication status, blinding, or language in the analyses of benefits and harms, and observational studies in the assessment of harms.
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Terlipressin versus placebo or no intervention for people with cirrhosis and hepatorenal syndrome
Randomised clinical trials (RCTs) involving participants with cirrhosis and type 1 or type 2 hepatorenal syndrome allocated to terlipressin versus placebo or no intervention. We allowed co‐administration with albumin administered to both comparison groups.
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Management for intussusception in children
We included all randomised controlled trials comparing contrast media, imaging modalities, pharmacological adjuvants, protocols for delayed repeat enema, and/or surgical approaches for the management of intussusception in children. We applied no language, publication date, or publication status restrictions.
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Oral calorie supplements for cystic fibrosis
Randomised or quasi‐randomised controlled trials comparing use of oral calorie supplements for at least one month to increase calorie intake with no specific intervention or additional nutritional advice in people with cystic fibrosis.
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Antimicrobial agents for preventing peritonitis in peritoneal dialysis patients
RCTs or quasi‐RCTs in patients receiving chronic PD, which evaluated any antimicrobial agents used systemically or locally to prevent peritonitis or exit‐site/tunnel infection were included.
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Maintenance immunosuppression for adults undergoing liver transplantation: a network meta‐analysis
We included only randomised clinical trials (irrespective of language, blinding, or publication status) in adult participants undergoing liver transplantation (or liver retransplantation) for any reason. We excluded trials in which participants had undergone multivisceral transplantation or participants with established graft rejections. We considered any of the various maintenance immunosuppressive regimens compared with each other.
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Deprescribing versus continuation of chronic proton pump inhibitor use in adults
We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi‐randomized trials comparing at least one deprescribing modality (e.g. stopping PPI or reducing PPI) with a control consisting of no change in continuous daily PPI use in adult chronic users. Outcomes of interest were: change in gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, drug burden/PPI use, cost/resource use, negative and positive drug withdrawal events, and participant satisfaction.
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Antibiotic treatment for Clostridium difficile‐associated diarrhoea in adults
Only randomised controlled trials assessing antibiotic treatment for CDI were included in the review.
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Hepatitis B immunoglobulin during pregnancy for prevention of mother‐to‐child transmission of hepatitis B virus
We included randomised clinical trials comparing HBIG versus placebo or no intervention in pregnant women with HBV.
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Mesh fixation with glue versus suture for chronic pain and recurrence in Lichtenstein inguinal hernioplasty
We included all randomised and quasi‐randomised controlled trials comparing glue versus sutures for mesh fixation in Lichtenstein hernia repair. Cluster‐RCTs were also eligible.
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Polymer‐based oral rehydration solution for treating acute watery diarrhoea
We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of people with acute watery diarrhoea (cholera and non‐cholera associated) that compared polymer‐based and glucose‐based ORS (with identical electrolyte contents).
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Anti‐IL‐12/23p40 antibodies for induction of remission in Crohn's disease
Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) trials in which monoclonal antibodies against IL‐12/23p40 were compared to placebo or another active comparator in patients with active Crohn's disease were included.
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Methods to decrease blood loss during liver resection: a network meta‐analysis
We included only randomised clinical trials (irrespective of language, blinding, or publication status) comparing different methods of decreasing blood loss and blood transfusion requirements in people undergoing liver resection.
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Heated insufflation with or without humidification for laparoscopic abdominal surgery
Only randomised controlled trials comparing heated (with or without humidification) with cold gas insufflation in adult and paediatric populations undergoing laparoscopic abdominal procedures were included. We assessed study quality in regards to relevance, design, sequence generation, allocation concealment, blinding, possibility of incomplete data and selective reporting. Two review authors independently selected studies for the review, with any disagreement resolved in consensus with a third co‐author.
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Oral 5‐aminosalicylic acid for maintenance of medically‐induced remission in Crohn's disease
We included randomised controlled trials that compared oral 5‐ASA agents to either placebo or sulphasalazine in patients with quiescent Crohn's disease. The trials had to have a treatment duration of at least six months.
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Internal dressings for healing perianal abscess cavities
Published or unpublished randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing any type of internal dressing (packing) used in the post‐operative management of perianal abscess cavities with alternative treatments or different types of internal dressing.
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Osmotic and stimulant laxatives for the management of childhood constipation
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) which compared osmotic or stimulant laxatives to placebo or another intervention, with participants aged 0 to 18 years old were considered for inclusion. The primary outcome was frequency of defecation. Secondary endpoints included faecal incontinence, disimpaction, need for additional therapies and adverse events.
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Anti‐tuberculous therapy for maintenance of remission in Crohn's disease
Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of anti‐tuberculous therapy compared to placebo or another active therapy in patients with quiescent Crohn's disease were considered for inclusion.
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Epidural local anaesthetics versus opioid‐based analgesic regimens for postoperative gastrointestinal paralysis, vomiting and pain after abdominal surgery
We included parallel randomized controlled trials comparing effects of postoperative epidural local anaesthetic versus regimens based on systemic or epidural opioids.
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Aminosalicylates for induction of remission or response in Crohn's disease
Randomized controlled trials that evaluated the efficacy of sulfasalazine or mesalamine in the treatment of mildly to moderately active Crohn's disease compared to placebo, corticosteroids, and other aminosalicylates (alone or in combination with corticosteroids) were included.
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Sequential versus standard triple first‐line therapy for Helicobacter pylori eradication
We sought randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing 10‐day SEQ and STT (of at least seven days) for the eradication of H. pylori . Participants were adults and children diagnosed as positive for H. pylori infection and naïve to H. pylori treatment.
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Booster dose vaccination for preventing hepatitis B
Randomised clinical trials addressing anamnestic immune response to a booster dose of hepatitis B vaccine, more than five years after the primary vaccination, in apparently healthy participants, vaccinated in a three‐dose or four‐dose schedule of the hepatitis B vaccine during the primary vaccination, without receiving an additional dose or immunoglobulin.
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Fasting for haemostasis in children with gastrointestinal bleeding
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi‐RCTs in children with gastrointestinal bleeding that compared fasting with feeding.
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Pancreatic duct guidewire placement for biliary cannulation for the prevention of post‐endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) pancreatitis
RCTs comparing the PGW technique versus persistent CC or other advanced techniques in people undergoing ERCP with difficult biliary cannulation.
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Non‐absorbable disaccharides versus placebo/no intervention and lactulose versus lactitol for the prevention and treatment of hepatic encephalopathy in people with cirrhosis
We included RCTs, irrespective of publication status, language, or blinding.
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Eradication therapy for peptic ulcer disease in Helicobacter pylori‐positive people
We analysed randomised controlled trials of short‐ and long‐term treatment of peptic ulcer disease in H. pylori ‐positive adults. Participants received at least one week of H. pylori eradication compared with ulcer healing drug, placebo or no treatment. Trials were included if they reported assessment from two weeks onwards.
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Interventions for necrotising pancreatitis
We considered only RCTs performed in people with necrotising pancreatitis, irrespective of aetiology, presence of infection, language, blinding, or publication status for inclusion in the review.
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Perioperative dexmedetomidine for acute pain after abdominal surgery in adults
We included randomized, controlled trials of perioperative dexmedetomidine versus placebo or other drug during abdominal surgery in adults. Trials included one of the following outcomes: amount of 'rescue' opioid, postoperative pain, time to 'rescue' analgesia, participants requiring 'rescue' analgesia, postoperative sedation, PONV, time to first passage of flatus and stool or time to first out‐of‐bed mobilization.
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Interventions for dysphagia in long‐term, progressive muscle disease
We included randomised and quasi‐randomised controlled trials that assessed the effect of interventions for managing dysphagia in adults and children with long‐term, progressive muscle disease, compared to other interventions, placebo, no intervention, or standard care. Quasi‐randomised controlled trials are trials that used a quasi‐random method of allocation, such as date of birth, alternation, or case record number. Review authors previously excluded trials involving people with muscle conditions of a known inflammatory or toxic aetiology. In this review update, we decided to include trials of people with sporadic inclusion body myositis (IBM) on the basis that it presents as a long‐term, progressive muscle disease with uncertain degenerative and inflammatory aetiology and is typically refractory to treatment.
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Glutamine for induction of remission in Crohn's disease
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that compared glutamine supplementation administered by any route to a placebo, active comparator or no intervention in people with active Crohn's disease were considered for inclusion.
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Periodontal therapy as adjunctive treatment for gastric Helicobacter pylori infection
RCTs comparing periodontal therapy plus eradication treatment with eradication treatment alone, regardless of language of publication.
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Duodenum‐preserving pancreatic resection versus pancreaticoduodenectomy for chronic pancreatitis
We considered only randomised controlled trials (RCT) performed in people with chronic pancreatitis undergoing pancreatic head resection, irrespective of language, blinding, or publication status, for inclusion in the review.
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Pregabalin for decreasing pancreatic pain in chronic pancreatitis
We considered only randomised controlled trials (RCT) performed in people with chronic pancreatic pain due to chronic pancreatitis, irrespective of language, blinding, or publication status for inclusion in the review.
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Enhanced recovery protocols for major upper gastrointestinal, liver and pancreatic surgery
We considered only randomised controlled trials (RCTs) performed in people undergoing major upper gastrointestinal, liver and pancreatic surgery, irrespective of language, blinding or publication status for inclusion in the review.
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Antibiotic prophylaxis for surgical site infection in people undergoing liver transplantation
All eligible randomised clinical trials comparing any antibiotic regimen versus placebo, versus no intervention or versus another antibiotic regimen for surgical site infection in liver transplant recipients, regardless of age, sex and reason for transplantation. Quasi‐randomised studies and other observational studies were considered for data on harm if retrieved with search results for randomised clinical trials.
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Etrolizumab for induction of remission in ulcerative colitis
Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) trials in which etrolizumab was compared to placebo or another active comparator in patients with active ulcerative colitis were included.
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Surgery for complete (full‐thickness) rectal prolapse in adults
All randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of surgery for managing full‐thickness rectal prolapse in adults.
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Treatment for dysphagia (swallowing difficulties) in hereditary ataxia
We considered all randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi‐RCTs that compared treatments for hereditary ataxia with placebo or no treatment. We only included studies measuring dysphagia.
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Laparoscopic fundoplication surgery versus medical management for gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) in adults
We considered only randomised controlled trials (RCT) comparing laparoscopic fundoplication with medical treatment in people with GORD irrespective of language, blinding, or publication status for inclusion in the review.
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Azathioprine or 6‐mercaptopurine for maintenance of remission in Crohn's disease
Randomized controlled trials of oral azathioprine or 6‐mercaptopurine compared to placebo or active therapy involving adult patients (> 18 years) with quiescent Crohn's disease were considered for inclusion. Patients with surgically‐induced remission were excluded.
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Oral budesonide for induction of remission in ulcerative colitis
Randomised controlled trials comparing oral budesonide to placebo or another active therapy for induction of remission in ulcerative colitis were considered eligible. There were no exclusions based on patient age or the type, dose, duration or formulation of budesonide therapy.
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Noninvasive positive pressure ventilation for acute respiratory failure following upper abdominal surgery
We selected randomized or quasi‐randomized controlled trials involving adults with acute respiratory failure after upper abdominal surgery who were treated with CPAP or bilevel NPPV with, or without, drug therapy as standard medical care, compared to adults treated with oxygen therapy with, or without, standard medical care.
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Preoperative inspiratory muscle training for postoperative pulmonary complications in adults undergoing cardiac and major abdominal surgery
We included randomized controlled trials that compared preoperative IMT and usual preoperative care for adults undergoing cardiac or major abdominal surgery.
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Interventions for heartburn in pregnancy
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi‐RCTS of interventions for heartburn in pregnancy compared with another intervention, or placebo, or no intervention. Cluster‐RCTs would have been eligible for inclusion but none were identified. We excluded studies available as abstracts only and those using a cross‐over design.Interventions could include advice on diet, lifestyle modification and medications (such as antacids, sucralfate, histamine 2‐receptor antagonists, promotility drugs and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)).
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Type I interferons for induction of remission in ulcerative colitis
Randomised controlled trials of type I IFNs for induction of remission in UC were included. The study population included patients of any age with active ulcerative colitis. There were no exclusions based on type, dose or duration of IFN treatment.
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Methotrexate for maintenance of remission in ulcerative colitis
Randomized controlled trials in which methotrexate was compared to placebo or an active comparator in patients with quiescent ulcerative were considered for inclusion.
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Unfractionated or low‐molecular weight heparin for induction of remission in ulcerative colitis
Randomized controlled trials comparing UFH or LMWH to placebo or a control therapy for induction of remission in ulcerative colitis were included. Studies published in abstract form only were included if the authors could be contacted for further information.
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Post‐pyloric versus gastric tube feeding for preventing pneumonia and improving nutritional outcomes in critically ill adults
Randomized or quasi‐randomized controlled trials comparing post‐pyloric versus gastric tube feeding in critically ill adults.
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Plugs for containing faecal incontinence
Types of studies: this review was limited to randomised and quasi‐randomised controlled trials (including crossovers) of anal plug use for the management of faecal incontinence.Types of participants: children and adults with faecal incontinence.Types of interventions: any type of anal plug. Comparison interventions might include no treatment, conservative (physical) treatments, nutritional interventions, surgery, pads and other types or sizes of plugs.
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Antifibrinolytic amino acids for upper gastrointestinal bleeding in people with acute or chronic liver disease
Randomised clinical trials irrespective of blinding, language, or publication status for assessment of benefits and harms. Observational studies for assessment of harms.
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Budesonide for induction of remission in Crohn's disease
Randomised controlled trials comparing budesonide to a placebo or active comparator were considered for inclusion.
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Water infusion versus air insufflation for colonoscopy
We included randomised controlled trials comparing water infusion (water exchange or water immersion methods) against standard air insufflation during the insertion phase of the colonoscopy.
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Endoscopic injection of cyanoacrylate glue versus other endoscopic procedures for acute bleeding gastric varices in people with portal hypertension
Randomised clinical trials comparing sclerotherapy using cyanoacrylate versus other endoscopic methods (sclerotherapy using alcohol‐based compounds or endoscopy band ligation) for acute gastric variceal bleeding in people with portal hypertension.
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Enteral nutrition formulations for acute pancreatitis
We considered randomised clinical trials assessing enteral nutrition in patients with acute pancreatitis. We allowed concomitant interventions if they were received equally by all treatment groups within a trial.
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Endoscopic or surgical intervention for painful obstructive chronic pancreatitis
All randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of endoscopic or surgical interventions in obstructive chronic pancreatitis. We included trials comparing endoscopic versus surgical interventions as well as trials comparing either endoscopic or surgical interventions to conservative treatment (i.e. non‐invasive treatment modalities). We included relevant trials irrespective of blinding, the number of participants randomised, and the language of the article.
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Treatment for cryoglobulinemic and non‐cryoglobulinemic peripheral neuropathy associated with hepatitis C virus infection
We included all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi‐RCTs involving participants with cryoglobulinemic or non‐cryoglobulinemic peripheral neuropathy associated with HCV infection. We considered any intervention (including interferon alfa, interferon alfa plus ribavirin, corticosteroids, cyclophosphamide, plasma exchange, and rituximab) alone or in combination versus placebo or another intervention ('head‐to‐head' comparison study design) evaluated after a minimum interval to follow‐up of at least six months.
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Tranexamic acid for upper gastrointestinal bleeding
Randomised controlled trials, irrespective of language or publication status.
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Hepatitis B vaccination during pregnancy for preventing infant infection
Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing hepatitis B vaccination compared with placebo or no treatment during pregnancy for preventing infant infection. Quasi‐RCTs and cross‐over studies were not eligible for inclusion.
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Tolerability of selective cyclooxygenase 2 inhibitors used for the treatment of rheumatological manifestations of inflammatory bowel disease
Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared COX‐2 inhibitors to placebo were considered for inclusion. Participants were adult patients with IBD presenting with rheumatological manifestations of at least two weeks duration.
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Non‐nutritive sucking for gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease in preterm and low birth weight infants
Controlled trials using random or quasi‐random allocation of preterm infants (less than 37 weeks' gestation) and low birth weight (less than 2500 g) infants three months of age and less with signs or symptoms suggestive of GORD, or infants with a diagnosis of GORD. We included studies reported only by abstracts, and cluster and cross‐over randomised trials.
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Epinephrine injection versus epinephrine injection and a second endoscopic method in high‐risk bleeding ulcers
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing epinephrine alone versus epinephrine plus a second method. Populations consisted of patients with high‐risk bleeding peptic ulcers, that is, patients with haemorrhage from peptic ulcer disease (gastric or duodenal) with major stigmata of bleeding as defined by Forrest classification Ia (spurting haemorrhage), Ib (oozing haemorrhage), IIa (non‐bleeding visible vessel) and IIb (adherent clot) (Forrest Ia‐Ib‐IIa‐IIb).
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Interventions for treating postpartum constipation
All randomised controlled trials comparing any intervention for the treatment of postpartum constipation to another intervention, placebo or no intervention.Interventions could include laxatives, surgery, as well as educational and behavioural interventions.
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Budesonide for maintenance of remission in Crohn's disease
Randomized controlled trials comparing budesonide to a control treatment, or comparing two doses of budesonide, were included. The study population included patients of any age with quiescent Crohn's disease.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Vedolizumab for induction and maintenance of remission in ulcerative colitis
Randomized controlled trials comparing vedolizumab to placebo or a control therapy for induction or maintenance of remission in ulcerative colitis were included.
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Methotrexate for induction of remission in refractory Crohn's disease
Randomized controlled trials of methotrexate compared to placebo or an active comparator for treatment of active refractory Crohn's disease in adult patients (> 17 years) were considered for inclusion.
Provide selection criteria that should be included in the study
Antimicrobial drugs for treating cholera
Randomized and quasi‐randomized controlled clinical trials in adults and children with cholera that compared: 1) any antimicrobial treatment with placebo or no treatment; 2) different antimicrobials head‐to‐head; or 3) different dosing schedules or different durations of treatment with the same antimicrobial.
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Antimicrobial prophylaxis for colorectal surgery
Randomised controlled trials of prophylactic antibiotic use in elective and emergency colorectal surgery, with surgical wound infection as an outcome.
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Botulinum toxin for upper oesophageal sphincter dysfunction in neurological swallowing disorders
Only randomised controlled trials were sought.
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Dopamine agents for hepatic encephalopathy
Randomised trials were included, irrespective of publication status or language. The primary analyses included data from randomised trials using a parallel‐group design or the first period of cross‐over trials. Paired data from cross‐over trials were included in sensitivity analyses.
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Early versus delayed laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute gallstone pancreatitis
We included randomised controlled trials, irrespective of language or publication status, comparing early versus delayed laparoscopic cholecystectomy for people with acute biliary pancreatitis.
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Abdominal lift for laparoscopic cholecystectomy
We included all randomised clinical trials comparing abdominal wall lift (with or without pneumoperitoneum) versus pneumoperitoneum.
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Opioids for acute pancreatitis pain
We considered randomised clinical trials (RCTs) assessing the effectiveness of any opioid drug used for treating acute pancreatitis pain.
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Laparoscopic repair for perforated peptic ulcer disease
Randomized clinical trials comparing laparoscopic surgery versus open surgery for the repair of perforated peptic ulcer using any mechanical method of closure (suture, omental patch or fibrin sealant).
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Open Mesh versus non‐Mesh for groin hernia repair
Studies were eligible for inclusion if they were randomised or quasi‐randomised trials comparing either a) open mesh with open non‐mesh repair of groin hernia or b) open flat mesh repair with plug and mesh repair of groin hernia.
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Antioxidant supplementation for sickle cell disease
We included randomized and quasi‐randomized controlled trials comparing antioxidant supplementation to placebo, other antioxidants, or different doses of antioxidants, in people with SCD.
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Nebuliser systems for drug delivery in cystic fibrosis
Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi‐RCTs comparing nebuliser systems, including conventional nebulisers, vibrating mesh technology (VMT) systems, adaptive aerosol delivery (AAD) systems and ultrasonic nebuliser systems.
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Interventions for improving adherence to airway clearance treatment and exercise in people with cystic fibrosis
We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi‐RCTs of parallel design assessing any intervention aimed at enhancing adherence to physiotherapy in people with CF versus no intervention, another intervention or usual care.
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Digital technology for delivering and monitoring exercise programs for people with cystic fibrosis
We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi‐RCTs of digital health technologies for delivering or monitoring exercise programs in CF.
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Interventions for the long‐term prevention of hereditary angioedema attacks
We included randomised controlled trials in children or adults with HAE that used medications to prevent HAE attacks. The comparators could be placebo or active comparator, or both; approved and experimental drug trials were eligible for inclusion. There were no restrictions on dose, frequency or intensity of treatment. The minimum length of four weeks of treatment was required for inclusion; this criterion excluded the acute treatment of HAE attacks.
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Strategies for screening for familial hypercholesterolaemia in primary care and other community settings
As per the Effective Practice and Organisation of Care (EPOC) Group guidelines, we planned to include randomised controlled trials (RCTs), cluster‐RCTs and non‐randomised studies of interventions (NRSI). Eligible NRSI were non‐randomised controlled trials, prospective cohort studies, controlled before‐and‐after studies, and interrupted‐time‐series studies.We planned to selected studies with healthcare interventions strategies that aimed to systematically identify people with possible or definite clinical familial hypercholesterolaemia, in primary care and other community settings. These strategies would be compared with usual care or no intervention.We considered participants of any age from the general population who access primary care and other community settings.
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Embolisation for pulmonary arteriovenous malformation
Trials in which individuals with pulmonary arteriovenous malformations were randomly allocated to embolisation compared to no treatment, surgical resection or embolisation using a different embolisation device.
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Long‐acting inhaled bronchodilators for cystic fibrosis
Randomised or quasi‐randomised parallel trials comparing long‐acting inhaled bronchodilators (beta‐2 agonists and muscarinic antagonists) with placebo, no treatment or a different long‐acting inhaled bronchodilator in adults and children with cystic fibrosis.
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Enzyme replacement therapy for infantile‐onset Pompe disease
Randomized and quasi‐randomized controlled trials of enzyme replacement therapy in children with infantile‐onset Pompe disease.
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Beta‐blockers for preventing aortic dissection in Marfan syndrome
All randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of at least one year in duration assessing the effects of beta‐blocker monotherapy compared with placebo, no treatment or surveillance only, in people of all ages with a confirmed diagnosis of Marfan syndrome were eligible for inclusion.
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Prophylactic levosimendan for the prevention of low cardiac output syndrome and mortality in paediatric patients undergoing surgery for congenital heart disease
We only included randomised controlled trials (RCT) in our analysis that compared prophylactic levosimendan with standard medication or placebo, in infants and children up to 18 years of age, who were undergoing surgery for congenital heart disease.
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Non‐invasive ventilation for cystic fibrosis
Randomised controlled trials comparing a form of pressure preset or volume preset non‐invasive ventilation to no non‐invasive ventilation used for airway clearance or during sleep or exercise in people with acute or chronic respiratory failure in cystic fibrosis.
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Non‐surgical interventions for treating heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) in women with bleeding disorders
Randomised controlled studies of non‐surgical interventions for treating heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) in women of reproductive age suffering from a congenital or acquired bleeding disorder.
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Pneumococcal vaccines for cystic fibrosis
Randomised and quasi‐randomised controlled trials comparing pneumococcal vaccination (with either a polysaccharide or conjugate pneumococcal vaccine) with non‐vaccination or placebo in children or adults with cystic fibrosis were eligible for inclusion.
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Intravenous alpha‐1 antitrypsin augmentation therapy for treating patients with alpha‐1 antitrypsin deficiency and lung disease
We included randomised trials of augmentation therapy with alpha‐1 antitrypsin compared with placebo or no treatment.
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Enzyme replacement therapy for Anderson‐Fabry disease
Randomized controlled trials of agalsidase alfa or beta in participants diagnosed with Anderson‐Fabry disease.