Articles: patients.
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Objective : To evaluate if mechanical left ventricular unloading could reduce mortality in patients with cardiogenic shock undergoing venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO). Methods : We searched MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Library for randomized controlled trials and propensity score-matched studies published until December 20, 2023. The primary outcome was mortality at the longest follow-up. ⋯ Mechanical left ventricular unloading was significantly associated with reduced mortality at the longest follow-up (RR, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.84-0.94; P = 0.0001; moderate certainty of evidence), which was confirmed in studies using intra-aortic balloon pump. Benefits of mechanical unloading were also observed in terms of successful VA-ECMO weaning (RR, 1.15; 95% CI, 1.02-1.29; P = 0.02; low certainty of evidence) and favorable neurological outcome (two studies; RR, 2.45; 95% CI, 1.62-3.69; P < 0.0001; low certainty of evidence), although we observed an increased incidence of major bleeding (RR, 1.27; 95% CI, 1.02-1.59; P = 0.03; low certainty of evidence) and hemolysis (RR, 1.49; 95% CI, 1.10-2.02; P = 0.01; moderate certainty of evidence). Conclusions : Among adult patients with cardiogenic shock treated with VA-ECMO, mechanical left ventricular unloading was associated with reduced mortality, which was confirmed in studies using intra-aortic balloon pump as an unloading device.
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Meta Analysis
Delay in the Diagnosis of Pediatric Brain Tumors in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Vague symptoms and a lack of pathognomonic features hinder the timely diagnosis of pediatric brain tumors (PBTs). However, patients in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) must also bear the brunt of a multitude of additional factors contributing to diagnostic delays and subsequently affecting survival. Therefore, this study aims to assess these factors and quantify the durations associated with diagnostic delays for PBTs in LMICs. ⋯ A multitude of factors contribute to diagnostic delays in LMICs. The disproportionate effect of these factors is demonstrated by the long interval between symptom onset and the definitive diagnosis of PBTs in LMICs, when compared with high-income countries. While evidence-based policy recommendations may improve the pace of diagnosis, policy makers will need to be cognizant of the unique challenges patients and health care systems face in LMICs.
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Review Meta Analysis
Does pain influence control of muscle force? A systematic review and meta-analysis.
In the presence of pain, whether clinical or experimentally induced, individuals commonly show impairments in the control of muscle force (commonly known as force steadiness). In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we synthesized the available evidence on the influence of clinical and experimental pain on force steadiness. ⋯ This systematic review and meta-analyses enhances our understanding of motor impairments observed in people experiencing musculoskeletal pain. It underscores the significance of incorporating force steadiness assessment when managing individuals experiencing musculoskeletal pain. Additionally, it suggests that future research should explore the potential benefits of force steadiness training in alleviating patients' symptoms and enhancing their functional performance. This could potentially lead to the development of innovative therapeutic approaches for individuals suffering from musculoskeletal pain.
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Meta Analysis
Do Obese Patients Have Worse Outcomes in Adult Spinal Deformity Surgeries? A Meta-Analysis.
A meta-analysis study. ⋯ Nonobese patients undergoing ASD corrective surgery are associated with fewer implant-related complications, a lower EBL, shorter LOS, and a higher likelihood of being discharged home compared with their obese counterparts.
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Meta Analysis Comparative Study
Inhaled Reliever Therapies for Asthma: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
The optimal inhaled reliever therapy for asthma remains unclear. ⋯ In this network meta-analysis of patients with asthma, ICS combined with formoterol and ICS combined with SABA were each associated with reduced asthma exacerbations and improved asthma control compared with SABA alone.