Meta-analysis Of Clinical Outcomes Research Articles

Same-Day Versus Staged Spinal Fusion: A Meta-analysis of Clinical Outcomes.

Meta-Analysis. This meta-analysis aims to compare same-day versus staged spine surgery, assessing their effects on patient care and healthcare system efficiency. In spinal surgery, the debate between whether same-day and staged surgeries are better for patients continues, as the decision may impact patient related outcomes, healthcare resources and overall costs. While some surgeons advocate for staged surgeries citing reduced risks of complications, others proclaim same-day surgeries may minimize costs and length of hospital stays. PubMed, Cochrane and Google Scholar (Pages 1-20) were searched up until February 2024. The studied outcomes were operative room (OR) time, estimated blood loss (EBL), length of hospital stay (LOS), overall complications, venous thromboembolism (VTE), death, reoperations and non-home discharge. Sixteen retrospective studies were included in this meta-analysis, representing a total of 2346 patients of which 644 underwent staged spinal fusion surgeries and 1702 same-day surgeries. No statistically significant difference was observed in EBL between staged and same-day surgery groups. However, the staged group exhibited a statistically significant longer OR time (P= 0.05) and LOS (P=0.004). A higher rate of overall complications (P=0.002) and VTE (P=0.0008) was significantly associated with the staged group. No significant differences were found in the rates of death, reoperations, and non-home discharge between the two groups. Both staged and same-day spinal fusion surgeries showed comparable rates of death, reoperations and non-home discharges for patients undergoing spinal surgeries. However, given the increased OR time, LOS and complications associated with staged spinal surgeries, this study supports same-day surgeries when possible to minimize the burden on healthcare resources and enhance efficiency.

Combined Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction (ACLR) and Lateral Extra-articular Tenodesis through the Modified Lemaire Technique versus Isolated ACLR: A Meta-analysis of Clinical Outcomes.

Objective Lateral extra-articular tenodesis (LET) has been proposed to resolve rotatory instability following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). The present meta-analysis aimed to compare the clinical outcomes of ACLR and ACLR with LET using the modified Lemaire technique. Materials and Methods We performed a meta-analysis following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) staement. The literature search was performed on the PubMed, EBSCOHost, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and WileyOnline databases. The data extracted from the studies included were the study characteristics, the failure rate (graft or clinical failure) as the primary outcome, and the functional score as the secondary outcome. Comparisons were made between the patients who underwent isolated ACLR (ACLR group) and those submitted to ACLR and LET through the modified Lemaire technique (ACLR + LET group). Results A total of 5 studies including 797 patients were evaluated. The ACLR + LET group presented a lower risk of failure and lower rate of rerupture than the ACLR group (risk ratio [RR] = 0.44; 95% confidence interval [95%CI]: 0.26 to 0.75; I 2 = 9%; p = 0.003). The ACLR + LET group presented higher scores on the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) regarding the following outcomes: pain, activities of daily living (ADL), sports, and quality of life (QOL), with mean differences of 0.20 (95%CI: 0.10 to 0.30; I 2 = 0%; p < 0.0001), -0.20 (95%CI: -0.26 to -0.13; I 2 = 0%; p < 0.00001), 0.20 (95%CI: 0.02 to 0.38; I 2 = 0%; p = 0.03), and 0.50 (95%CI: 0.29 to 0.71; I 2 = 0%; p < 0.00001) respectively when compared with the ACLR group. Conclusion Adding LET through the modified Lemaire technique to ACLR may improve knee stability because of the lower rate of graft rerupture and the superiority in terms of clinical outcomes. Level of Evidence I.

Efficacy and Safety of Preoperative Embolization in Glomus Jugulare Tumors: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Clinical Outcomes and Complications.

This study aims to provide a comprehensive review of the clinical benefits, complications, and safety profile associated with preoperative embolization in Glomus jugulare tumors (GJTs). A comprehensive search in PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science was conducted for English articles published up to March 2023, focusing on GJTs and preoperative embolization. Included studies involved patients over 18 with GJTs. We excluded studies that explored embolization methods other than the standard endovascular approach, as well as studies involving paragangliomas that did not provide specific data related to GJTs. Key variables such as hemorrhage volume and surgical time, as well as clinical outcomes, were analyzed. Data were analyzed using a random-effects model meta-analysis, assessing heterogeneity with the I2 statistic. This review encompasses 19 studies with a total of 328 patients. The studies incorporated into our meta-analysis display considerable differences and inconsistencies in their data. The findings of the meta-analysis show a mean hemorrhage volume of 636ml (95% confidence interval (CI) 473-799) following preoperative embolization, and a mean surgical duration of 487min (95% CI 350-624). The study also notes potential complications: facial nerve deficits occurred in 20% of cases (95% CI 11-32%), and vagal nerve deficits in 22% (95% CI 13-31%). This study suggests that preoperative embolization could decrease surgery duration and blood loss, but emphasizes the importance of evaluating risks like nerve damage. However, the generalizability of these findings is restricted due to the diversity of available data.

Shoulder Arthroplasty After Previous Nonarthroplasty Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Clinical Outcomes and Complications.

Many patients who undergo shoulder arthroplasty (SA) have had at least 1 nonarthroplasty shoulder surgery before the surgery. There is conflicting evidence regarding the effects of previous shoulder surgery on the outcome of SA. A systematic review was conducted to compare functional outcomes and complications between SA patients with and without prior non-SA surgery on the ipsilateral shoulder. We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines and searched MEDLINE/PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science comprehensively from inception to January 2023. Based on 9,279 records reviewed, 26 comparative studies were included in the meta-analysis consisting of 5,431 shoulders with prior nonarthroplasty procedures (cases) and 55,144 shoulders without previous surgery (controls). Variables such as functional scores, complications, and range of motion were compared between cases and controls using Review Manager Software. In addition, subgroup analysis was conducted based on prior surgery type (rotator cuff repair [RCR], open reduction and internal fixation [ORIF], soft tissue repairs, and not specified) and type of SA (hemiarthroplasty, anatomical total shoulder arthroplasty, and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty [RTSA]). The results were presented as odds ratios (ORs) or standardized mean differences (SMDs). Except for a higher rate of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) in patients who had undergone previous arthroscopic surgery (OR, 2.58; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.66-4.01; p < 0.01), a higher rate of complications was only observed in patients with previous ORIF. These complications included aseptic loosening (OR, 3.43; 95% CI, 2.14-5.50; p < 0.01), shoulder dislocation (OR, 2.25; 95% CI, 1.05-4.84; p = 0.04), overall complication (OR, 3.95; 95% CI, 2.38-6.55; p < 0.01), and revision (OR, 2.52; 95% CI, 1.28-4.97; p = 0.01). Patients with a history of previous surgery demonstrated inferior functional outcomes in comparison with the control group, including American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (SMD, -0.39; 95% CI, -0.51 to -0.27; p < 0.01; I2 = 36%), Constant-Murley score (SMD, -0.34; 95% CI, -0.44 to -0.24; p < 0.01; I2 = 0%), abduction (SMD, -0.26; 95% CI, -0.45 to -0.08; p = 0.01; I2 = 54%), and flexion (SMD, -0.33; 95% CI, -0.46 to -0.21; p < 0.01; I2 = 40%). Subgroup analysis by previous type of surgery was not possible regarding functional outcomes. Patients who have had prior fracture surgery are at a higher risk of complications, reoperations, and revisions after SA than controls. The normal shoulder anatomy may be disrupted by prior surgery, which makes arthroplasty technically challenging, particularly when it comes to soft tissue balance. On the other hand, RCR before SA did not negatively affect clinical outcomes after RTSA and did not have a higher rate of overall complications (except PJI). Level III (Treatment Studies). See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Carotid artery revascularization using second generation stents versus surgery: a meta-analysis of clinical outcomes.

Meta-analyses and emerging randomized data indicate that second-generation ('mesh') carotid stents (SGS) may improve outcomes versus conventional (single-layer) stents but clinically-relevant differences in individual SGS-type performance have been identified. No comparisons exist for SGS versus carotid endarterectomy (CEA). Thirty-day death (D), stroke (S), myocardial infarction (M), and 12-month ipsilateral stroke and restenosis in SGS studies were meta-analyzed (random effect model) against CEA outcomes. Eligible studies were identified through PubMed/EMBASE/COCHRANE. Forest plots were formed for absolute adverse evet risk in individual studies and for relative outcomes with each SGS deign versus contemporary CEA outcomes as reference. Meta-regression was performed to identify potential modifiers of treatment modality effect. Data were extracted from 103,642 patients in 25 studies (14 SGS-treated, 41% symptomatic; nine randomized controlled trial (RCT)-CEA-treated, 37% symptomatic; and two Vascular Quality Initiative (VQI)-CEA-treated, 23% symptomatic). Casper/Roadsaver and CGuard significantly reduced DSM versus RCT-CEA (-2.70% and -2.95%, P<0.001 for both) and versus VQI-CEA (-1.11% and -1.36%, P<0.001 for both). Gore stent 30-day DSM was similar to RCT-CEA (P=0.581) but increased against VQI-CEA (+2.38%, P=0.033). At 12 months, Casper/Roadsaver ipsilateral stroke rate was lower than RCT-CEA (-0.75%, P=0.026) and similar to VQI-CEA (P=0.584). Restenosis with Casper/Roadsaver was +4.18% vs. RCT-CEA and +4.83% vs. VQI-CEA (P=0.005, P<0.001). CGuard 12-month ipsilateral stroke rate was similar to VQI-CEA (P=0.850) and reduced versus RCT-CEA (-0.63%, P=0.030); restenosis was reduced respectively by -0.26% and -0.63% (P=0.033, P<0.001). Twelve-month Gore stent outcomes were overall inferior to surgery. Meta-analytic integration of available clinical data indicates: 1) reduction in stroke but increased restenosis rate with Casper/Roadsaver, and 2) reduction in both stroke and restenosis with CGuard MicroNET-covered stent against contemporary CEA outcomes at 30 days and 12 months used as a reference. This may inform clinical practice in anticipation of large-scale randomized trials powered for low clinical event rates (PROSPERO-CRD42022339789).

Venetoclax for Mantle Cell Lymphoma: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Clinical Outcomes

Background: No standard of care first line therapy has been established for treatment naive patients with mantle cell lymphoma (MCL). Limited options exist in the treatment armamentarium for patients who cannot tolerate induction therapy. Venetoclax (V) based regimens have been studied recently in retrospective studies and in early phase clinical trials. We aim to systematically review the evidence of efficacy and safety of V based regimens in mantle cell lymphoma. Methods: We carried out a systematic search on MEDLINE, Cochrane, ASH and ASCO meetings library. Screening was done to include studies with MCL patients who were treated with V monotherapy or any combination. Retrospective studies, case series, reports and reviews were excluded. Quality assessment was performed using methodological index for non-randomized studies (MINORS) tool. The primary efficacy outcomes evaluated included complete response (CR) by Lugano criteria, minimal residual disease (MRD) by flow cytometry, PCR or next generation sequencing (NGS). Safety outcomes evaluated included grade 3 or more adverse events including neutropenia and any tumor lysis syndrome (TLS) as assessed by common terminology criteria for adverse events (CTCAE) version 4. Predefined subgroup analysis was performed based on studies with first line vs RR disease and concurrent bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitor (BTKi) use vs not. Random effects model was used. Data was analyzed using R version 4.2.1. Results: 11 clinical trials with 300 patients were included. 5 out of 11 trials had V based regimen evaluated in treatment naïve population only while 3 trials evaluated only relapse refractory population. MRD assessment data was reported in 7 studies. V based combination regimens used in the trials are listed in table 1 below. Meta-analysis of 300 evaluable patients from 11 trials showed a pooled CR rate of 71% (95% CI: 61- 79%) with high heterogeneity (I 2 = 62%, p value 0.001)(figure 1). Pooled CR rate among studies with only treatment naïve patients was 82% (95% CI: 74 - 88%) with low heterogeneity (I 2 = 0%, p = 0.45) compared to other studies with pooled CR rate 62% (95% CI: 51 - 72%, I 2 = 41%, p 0.13) with significant difference between the two subsets by testing of moderator coefficient (p 0.009). However, there was no difference in CR outcomes noted based on studies conducted with concurrent (BTKi) use (p 0.7). Pooled analysis from 7 studies reporting MRD data revealed an overall MRD rate of 67%(95% CI: 56 - 78%) with high heterogeneity(I 2 = 57%, p 0.02). Pooled grade 3 or more neutropenia rate was 35%(95% CI: 14 - 58%, I 2 = 88%, p&amp;lt; 0.01). The overall TLS rate among 9 reporting studies was 3.1%(95% CI: 0.2- 7.9%, I 2 = 46.7%, p 0.06). Conclusions: V is a viable option as part of treatment regimen for MCL patients with high response rates among treatment naïve patients as well and modest response rates among patients with relapse refractory disease. There is considerable heterogeneity of MRD rates accross studies, due in part to differences in study populations and to methodology of MRD testing. Pooled neutropenia and TLS rates appear to be low and make V a safe option as part of regimen.

Traditional Indian Medicine: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Clinical Outcome in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Diseases

Background: A fast developing liver condition called non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is closely related to the metabolic syndrome. Since there are currently no particular pharmaceutical treatments for NAFLD, lifestyle and dietary changes are the main focus of current treatment. Over centuries of use, a number of substances mentioned in Ayurvedic writings have demonstrated positive effects in patients. However, there is disagreement among the results of several randomized clinical trials (RCTs) about the effectiveness of herbs in treating non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).The purpose of this study is to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of the data to assess the efficacy and security of medications with Ayurvedic references. Methodology: To find pertinent studies, the electronic databases PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane library, and ARP were searched up to May 2022. Utilizing a modified Jadad Scale, the studies' quality was assessed. Using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool, the risk of bias was evaluated. The search turned up 1352 studies, but only 18 of them were ultimately assessed. A statistical analysis revealed a substantial decrease in the levels of AST (SMD: -0.91, 95% CI: -1.04, 0.08), ALT (SMD = 0.91; 95% CI: 1.53, 0.28; P 0.00001), and fatty liver (RR: 2.42, 95% CI: 1.52, 3.86).Conclusion: Based on the scant information that is currently available, Ayurvedic medicines have shown effective in treating NAFLD. To produce better evidence, more high-quality RCTs with sizable sample numbers and standardized Ayurvedic medications that take histological outcomes into account must be done.

Chronic total occlusion rotational atherectomy (CTO RA) versus non-CTO RA in coronary artery disease: A meta-analysis of clinical outcomes and complications

BackgroundChronic total occlusion rotational atherectomy (CTO RA) is an emerging intervention in coronary artery disease (CAD), although data comparing its outcomes and complications with non-CTO RA are scarce. We sought to evaluate the outcomes of RA in CTO lesions compared to those in non-CTO lesions by performing a meta-analysis. MethodsWe conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies comparing the clinical outcomes and complications between CTO RA and non-CTO RA in patients with CAD. We searched PUBMED, CINAHL, EMBASE and Cochrane Central Register of Clinical Trials for any studies that compared the outcomes of RA in CTO and non-CTO lesions. The outcomes analyzed included in-hospital major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), target vessel revascularization (TVR), angiographic success, procedural success, periprocedural complications, coronary perforation, and all-cause mortality. ResultsFour studies with a total of 1868 patients were included, spanning from 2018 to 2022, from Germany, Taiwan, and Korea. The median age of included patients was 71. The rate of the pooled results indicated a moderate, non-significant increase in in-hospital MACE and TVR for CTO RA compared to non-CTO RA. There was a small, non-significant decrease in angiographic and procedural success in CTO RA compared to non-CTO RA. CTO RA was associated with a non-significant increase in periprocedural complications and a significant increase in coronary perforation compared to non-CTO RA. All-cause mortality showed a non-significant increase in the CTO RA group. ConclusionThis meta-analysis provides evidence that while CTO RA may be associated with a higher risk of coronary perforation, the risk of other outcomes including MACE, TVR, and all-cause mortality is not significantly different compared to non-CTO RA. More research is needed to further understand these relationships and to optimize treatment strategies in patients with CAD undergoing CTO RA.

Navigating the Sotatercept landscape: A meta-analysis of clinical outcomes.

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a widespread condition that affects around 1% of the global population, with a higher prevalence among older individuals. The approach to managing PAH has undergone significant changes, requiring extensive treatment strategies. Sotatercept, an FDA-approved medication, has recently attracted attention for its potential role in PAH therapy. However, information on its safety and effectiveness is scarce. In this study, we performed a meta-analysis of existing randomized clinical trials to assess the impact of Sotatercept on PAH patients. Our findings revealed that those treated with Sotatercept showed greater improvement in pulmonary vascular resistance and World Health Organization functional class compared with placebo recipients. The occurrence of adverse events was similar between both groups. Importantly, the Sotatercept group displayed a considerably higher number of cases with an increase in hemoglobin levels. Considering that about 33% of PAH patients experience anemia and both anemia and polycythemia can adversely affect disease prognosis, additional research is necessary to establish the potential advantages and disadvantages of Sotatercept as a treatment choice, specifically regarding its erythropoietic properties.

903P AL101 therapy in patients with recurrent/metastatic (R/M) adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC): Final ACCURACY trial results and meta-analysis of clinical outcomes

903P AL101 therapy in patients with recurrent/metastatic (R/M) adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC): Final ACCURACY trial results and meta-analysis of clinical outcomes

Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Clinical Outcomes After Endovascular Treatment in Patients With Femoropopliteal Lesions Greater Than 150 mm.

Indications for endovascular treatment of femoropopliteal (FP) lesions have steadily increased over the past decade. Accordingly, the number of devices has also increased but the choice of the best endovascular treatment remains to be defined. The aim of this meta-analysis was to summarize all studies investigating endovascular treatment of FP lesions greater than 150 mm from 2010 to 2021. Articles were searched using PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane. Included studies were randomized controlled trials (RCTs), cohort studies, and case series (prospective and retrospective) that evaluated any endovascular procedure in patients with long FP lesions classified TASC (Trans-Atlantic Inter-Society Consensus document II on management of peripheral arterial disease) C and/or D, and a mean length >150 mm, primary outcome had to be the 1-year primary patency. Overall estimate of primary patency, secondary patency, and freedom from target lesion revascularization (TLR) at 1 year depending on the different devices were investigated. The meta-analysis was conducted following the requirements of the MOOSE (Meta-analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology) checklist. Forty-four papers comprising 4847 patients and 5282 treated limbs were included. Mean lesions length ranged from 150.5 to 330 mm. The pooled 1-year primary and secondary patencies, and freedom from TLR rates were 0.71 (95% CI: 0.67-0.74), 0.87 (95% CI: 0.83-0.91), and 0.79 (95% CI: 0.74-0.84), respectively. Primary permeability at 1 year were 0.68 (95% CI: 0.62-0.73), 0.67 (95% CI: 0.60-0.74), 0.74 (95% CI: 0.64-0.84), and 0.83 (95% CI: 0.78-0.88) for bare metal stents, covered stents (CSs), drug-eluting stents, and drug-coated balloons (DCBs), respectively. Lesions treated with DCB had the highest 1-year primary patency rate. At 1-year, endovascular procedures for FP lesions greater than 150 mm obtain satisfactory results. High primary patency rates were obtained with drug-coated devices, while CSs obtained less favorable results. Randomized studies comparing different devices in the treatment of long FP lesions remain necessary to determine the most optimal approach for the management of these patients. This paper highlights on the one hand the satisfactory results of endovascular treatment on complex femoropopliteal lesions formerly reserved for conventional surgery. On the other hand, among the available devices, paclitaxel-eluting devices seem to show superior results which should make them recommended as first-line treatment.

P-093 Solitary plasmacytoma: single institution experience and systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical outcomes

P-093 Solitary plasmacytoma: single institution experience and systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical outcomes

Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Clinical Outcomes After Management of Posterior Cruciate Ligament Tibial Avulsion Fractures.

There is no consensus regarding the management of posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) avulsion fractures and the expected outcomes after treatment. To systematically review clinical outcomes and complications after management of tibial-sided avulsion fractures of the PCL. Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4. A literature search of Scopus, PubMed, Medline, and the Cochrane Central Register for Controlled Trials was performed in accordance with the 2020 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Included were studies with evidence levels 1 to 4 that reported clinical outcomes after treatment of PCL tibial-sided avulsion fractures in humans. The quality of the included studies was performed using the Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies (MINORS) criteria. A meta-analysis was performed for patient-reported outcome measures using random-effects modeling with 95% CIs. A total of 58 studies published between 1999 and 2022 were identified. The mean MINORS score was 9.90 ± 4.12, indicating overall low-quality evidence with high risk of bias. The studies comprised 1440 patients (mean age, 32.59 ± 5.69 years; 75.2% males) with a mean follow-up of 26.9 ± 19.6 months (range, 5.3-126 months). Most patients were treated with open surgery (63.6%), followed by arthroscopic surgery (29.7%) and nonoperative treatment (6.7%). All patients reported significant posttreatment improvement in both subjective and objective outcomes (P < .05 for all). Arthroscopic surgery was associated with lower postoperative posterior tibial translation compared with open surgery (range, 0.6-3.2 vs 1.7-3.1 mm), greater preoperative to postoperative improvement in Lysholm score (54.6 vs 48.8; P < .0001), higher postoperative Tegner score (6.64 ± 1.03 vs 6.14 ± 2.29; P = .0448), and a higher rate of return to sport (100% vs 89.5%; P = .009). Nonoperative management was associated with a significantly lower fracture union rate (87% vs 99.1%; P < .0001) and greater postoperative side-to-side posterior translation (4.9 ± 4.3 mm) when compared with operative management. Although nonoperative and surgical management of PCL tibial avulsion fractures resulted in high rates of fracture union and improvement in functional outcome scores and a low incidence of complications, nonoperative treatment yielded a high side-to-side posterior displacement (>4 mm) with a lower rate of fracture union compared to surgical treatment.

Two-stage radiosurgery for large brain metastases: a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical outcomes.

Brain metastases (BMs) are the most common intracranial tumors. In several cases, they present as large masses, which are related to a worse prognosis and more complex therapeutic alternatives. Staged radiosurgery is reported to achieve local control with minimal radiation-related adverse events in BMs. However, no methodological consensus has been achieved in its use for large brain metastases (LBMs; > 2 cm). Therefore, the authors aimed to determine the effectiveness and safety of 2-stage Gamma Knife radiosurgery (GKRS) for LBMs, in order to optimize patients' postoperative course. A systematic review of available literature was run in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane (OvidSP), and Google Scholar for works published up to December 14, 2022. Nonrandomized clinical trials, case series, and cohort studies were included. The risk of bias was assessed using the Risk of Bias in Nonrandomized Studies-of Interventions (ROBINS-I) and Joanna Briggs Institute tools. Pooled mean difference and rates estimates were calculated by a random-effects model meta-analysis. The degree of heterogeneity was expressed using the I2 statistic. A subgroup analysis was performed. Ultimately, the certainty of evidence was evaluated using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) assessment. Fourteen studies met the eligibility criteria (cohorts, case series, and nonrandomized clinical trials), including 958 patients. A total pooled mean volume reduction of 6.27 cm3 (95% CI 5.67-6.88 cm3) and 54.36% (95% CI 39.92%-68.79%) after 2-stage GKRS was reported. Pooled rates of complete response (44.63%; 95% CI 26.50%-64.31%), neurological mortality (16.19%; 95% CI 7.68%-30.98%), and all-cause mortality (47.92%; 95% CI 28.04%-68.49%) were calculated. Overall certainty of evidence ranged from very low to moderate. Two-stage GKRS is an effective and safe approach for the treatment of LBMs. Nevertheless, the lack of available literature and the weak methodological approaches used determine a low to very low certainty of evidence and cannot provide robust evidence to recommend this intervention. Therefore, it is necessary to conduct higher-quality primary studies.

Impact of Anti-EGFR Therapies on HER2-Positive Metastatic Colorectal Cancer: A Systematic Literature Review and Meta-Analysis of Clinical Outcomes.

HER2 overexpression/amplification in patients with RAS wild-type (WT) metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) may be associated with resistance to standard-of-care anti-EGFR therapies. Given the lack of comprehensive investigations into this association, we assessed the prognostic or predictive effect of HER2 amplification/overexpression on anti-EGFR treatment outcomes. A systematic review of MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Library (2001-2021) identified studies evaluating progression-free survival (PFS), overall response rate (ORR), and overall survival (OS) in HER2-positive vs. HER2-negative patients with RAS WT mCRC who received anti-EGFR treatments and whose HER2 status was known. Meta-analyses of proportions (ORR) and hazard ratios (PFS, OS) were performed using random-effect models with pre-specified sensitivity analyses. Five high-quality retrospective cohort studies were included in the meta-analyses representing 594 patients with mCRC. All patients received anti-EGFR treatment, either as monotherapy or in combination with chemotherapy. Meta-analysis of PFS demonstrated a 2.84-fold higher risk of death or progression (95% CI, 1.44-5.60) in patients with HER2-positive (vs. HER2-negative) RAS WT mCRC treated with anti-EGFR regimens. The odds of response to anti-EGFR treatment were 2-fold higher in HER2-negative vs. HER2-positive (odds ratio, 1.96 [95% CI, 1.10-3.48]). Differences in OS were not statistically significant. Sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of the base-case estimates. While this study could not account for all confounding factors, in patients with RAS WT mCRC who received anti-EGFR therapy, HER2 overexpression/amplification was associated with worse PFS and ORR and may therefore predict poorer outcomes. HER2 testing is important to inform treatment decisions and could optimize outcomes for patients.

A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Clinical Outcomes in Autologous Breast Reconstruction Using Internal Mammary Artery Perforators as Recipient Vessels.

The protocol has been previously published in PROSPERO (CRD42020190020). The PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and PROSPERO databases were searched. Two independent reviewers evaluated the articles for inclusion in the study. Study quality was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and the MINORS instrument (Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies). Of the 361 articles screened, 13 studies were included (313 patients with 318 flaps; 223 unilateral, 31 bilateral, mean average age 51.2 and mean BMI 27.8 ± 1.9). The mean overall success rate was 99.8%, the pooled surgical success rate was 100% [95% confidence interval (CI): 97%-100%], and the overall rate of complications was 11% (95% CI: 7%-18%). The most common complication was vascular-related to microanastomoses, with an incidence of 5% (95% CI: 2%-10%). The fat necrosis rate was 3% (95% CI: 2%-6%). This study verified that internal mammary artery perforator vessels are reliable in breast reconstruction, with a high success rate and a relatively low complication rate. Moreover, in selected microsurgical breast reconstruction patients, internal mammary artery perforators may be the primary recipient vessel choice over the internal mammary artery or thoracodorsal vessels.

Annulus Fibrosus Repair for Lumbar Disc Herniation: A Meta-Analysis of Clinical Outcomes From Controlled Studies.

Meta-analysis. This study aimed to summarize the clinical efficacy and safety of the various annular defect repair methods that have emerged in recent years. A meta-analysis of randomized and non-randomized controlled trials was conducted. Articles from PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library (CENTRAL) on Lumbar disc herniation treatment with annular repair published from inception to April 2, 2022 were included. We summarized the clinical efficacy and safety of annular repair techniques based on a random-effects model meta-analysis. 7 randomized controlled studies and 8 observational studies with a total of 2161 participants met the inclusion criteria. The pooled data analysis showed that adding the annular repair technique reduced postoperative recurrence rate, reoperation rate, and loss of intervertebral height compared with lumbar discectomy alone. Subgroup analysis based on different annular repair techniques showed that the Barricaid Annular Closure Device (ACD) was effective in preventing re-protrusion and reducing reoperation rates, while there was no significant difference between the other subgroups. The annulus fibrosus suture (AFS) did not improve the postoperative Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). No statistically significant difference was observed in the incidence of adverse events between the annular repair and control groups. Lumbar discectomy combined with ACD can effectively reduce postoperative recurrence and reoperation rates in patients with LDH. AFS alone was less effective in reducing recurrence and reoperation rates and did not improve postoperative pain and function.

Navigating through the PD-1/PDL-1 Landscape: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Clinical Outcomes in Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Their Influence on Immunotherapy and Tumor Microenvironment.

This systematic review aimed to assess the prognostic significance of programmed cell death-ligand 1 (PDL-1) and programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Medline, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library database searches were conducted, revealing nine relevant cohort studies (seven PDL-1 and three PD-1). Our meta-analysis showed that PD-1/PDL-1 was a marker of poor survival, regardless of the assessment method (PD-1 overall survival (OS): hazard ratio (HR) 2.40; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.30-4.42; disease-free survival (DFS): HR 2.12; 95% CI, 1.45-3.10; PDL-1: OS: HR 3.61; 95% CI, 2.75-4.75; and DFS: HR 2.74; 95% CI, 2.09-3.59). Additionally, high level of PD-1/PDL-1 expression was associated with aging, multiple tumors, high alpha-fetoprotein levels, and advanced Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage. This high level significantly predicted a poor prognosis for HCC, suggesting that anti-PD-1 therapy is plausible for patients with HCC. Furthermore, HIF-1 induces PD-1 expression, and PD1lowSOCS3high is associated with a better prognosis. Taken together, combination therapy may be the key to effective immunotherapy. Thus, exploring other markers, such as HIF-1 and SOCS3, along with PD-1/PDL-1 immunotherapy, may lead to improved outcomes.

Proton Beam Therapy for Early Breast Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Clinical Outcomes

Adjuvant proton beam therapy (PBT) is increasingly available to patients with breast cancer. It achieves better planned dose distributions than standard photon radiation therapy and therefore may reduce the risks. However, clinical evidence is lacking. A systematic review of clinical outcomes from studies of adjuvant PBT for early breast cancer published in 2000 to 2022 was undertaken. Early breast cancer was defined as when all detected invasive cancer cells are in the breast or nearby lymph nodes and can be removed surgically. Adverse outcomes were summarized quantitatively, and the prevalence of the most common ones were estimated using meta-analysis. Thirty-two studies (1452 patients) reported clinical outcomes after adjuvant PBT for early breast cancer. Median follow-up ranged from 2 to 59 months. There were no published randomized trials comparing PBT with photon radiation therapy. Scattering PBT was delivered in 7 studies (258 patients) starting 2003 to 2015 and scanning PBT in 22 studies (1041 patients) starting 2000 to 2019. Two studies (123 patients) starting 2011 used both PBT types. For 1 study (30 patients), PBT type was unspecified. Adverse events were less severe after scanning than after scattering PBT. They also varied by clinical target. For partial breast PBT, 498 adverse events were reported (8 studies, 358 patients). None were categorized as severe after scanning PBT. For whole breast or chest wall ± regional lymph nodes PBT, 1344 adverse events were reported (19 studies, 933 patients). After scanning PBT, 4% (44/1026) of events were severe. The most prevalent severe outcome after scanning PBT was dermatitis, which occurred in 5.7% (95% confidence interval, 4.2-7.6) of patients. Other severe adverse outcomes included infection, pain, and pneumonitis (each ≤1%). Of the 141 reconstruction events reported (13 studies, 459 patients), the most prevalent after scanning PBT was prosthetic implant removal (34/181, 19%). This is a quantitative summary of all published clinical outcomes after adjuvant PBT for early breast cancer. Ongoing randomized trials will provide information on its longer-term safety compared with standard photon radiation therapy.

Mitral valve surgery via repeat median sternotomy versus right mini-thoracotomy: A systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical outcomes.

Redo mitral valve surgeries have high mortality and morbidity and can be physically demanding for patients. Median sternotomy remains the gold standard for most cardiac surgeries. To tackle certain risks with a re-sternotomy, alternative procedures such as the right anterolateral minithoracotomy have been explored. This review aims to compare the clinical outcomes of re-sternotomy (MS) versus right mini thoracotomy (MT) in mitral valve surgery. A systematic, electronic search was performed according to Preferred Reporting items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis guidelines to identify relevant articles that compared outcomes of the MS versus MT procedures in patients who have had cardiac surgery via a MS approach. Twelve studies were identified, enrolling 4514 patients. Length of hospital stay(MD = -3.71, 95% confidence interval [CI][-4.92, -2.49]), 30-day mortality(odds ratio [OR] = 0.59, 95% CI [0.39, 0.90]), and new-onset renal failure(OR = 0.38, 95% CI [0.22, 0.65]) were statistically significant in favor of the MT approach. Infection rates(OR = 0.56, 95% CI[0.25, 1.21]) and length of intensive care unit(ICU) stay (MD = -0.55, 95% CI[-1.16, 0.06]) was lower in the MT group; however, the difference was not significant. No significant differences were observed in the CPB time(MD = -2.33, 95% CI [-8.15, 3.50]), aortic cross-clamp time MD = -1.67, 95% CI[-17.07, 13.76]), and rates of stroke(OR = 1.03, 95% CI[0.55, 1.92]). Right MT is a safe alternative to the traditional re-sternotomy for patients who have had previous cardiac surgery. The approach offers a reduced length of hospital stay, ICU stay, and a lower risk of new-onset renal failure requiring dialysis. This review calls for robust trials in the field to further strengthen the evidence.