Chest
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Review Meta Analysis Comparative Study
The timing of tracheotomy in critically ill patients undergoing mechanical ventilation: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
The objective of this study was to systematically review and quantitatively synthesize all randomized controlled trials (RCTs), comparing important outcomes in ventilated critically ill patients who received an early or late tracheotomy. ⋯ The present meta-analysis suggested that the timing of the tracheotomy did not significantly alter important clinical outcomes in critically ill patients. The duration of MV and sedation, as well as the long-term outcomes of ET in mechanically ventilated patients, should be evaluated in rigorously designed and adequately powered RCTs in the future.