Objective. We conducted a meta-analysis to quantitatively evaluate the effects of abdominal binder in abdominal surgeries. Methods. Through literature retrieval in globally recognized databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central), trials investigating the application of abdominal binder in abdominal surgeries were systematically reviewed. The main outcomes, namely, 6-minute walk test (6MWT), visual analog scale (VAS) pain score, and symptom distress scale (SDS) score, were pooled to make an overall estimation. I2 index was calculated to identify heterogeneity, and sensitivity analysis was performed to validate the stability of main results and explore the source of heterogeneity. A funnel plot and Egger’s test were applied to assess publication bias. Results. Ten randomized controlled trials consisting of 968 subjects were ultimately included for the pooled estimation. Abdominal binder significantly increased the distance of 6MWT with standard mean difference (SMD) of .555 ( P < .001) and decreased the scores of VAS and SDS with SMD of −.979 ( P < .001) and −.716 ( P < .001), respectively. Despite of the significant heterogeneity indicated by I2 index statistic, the results of sensitivity analysis revealed the reliability of the main conclusions. While we identified no obvious publication bias regarding 6MWT (Egger’s test P = .321), it seemed that significant publication biases existed with respect to the estimation of VAS ( P < .001) and SDS ( P = .006). Conclusion. The current meta-analysis verified that abdominal binder efficiently promoted recovery after abdominal surgeries in terms of facilitating mobilization, alleviating pain, and reducing postoperative distress. More rigorously designed clinical trials with large sample size are expected to further elaborate its clinical value.
We suggested that HTK solution may offer the best safety during the perioperative period. However, Celsior solution led to better graft tolerance and exhibited greater benefit for long-term outcomes. And our conclusions still need to be further validated.
Background:
While dexamethasone has been applied following transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) for years, its clinical effects have not been determined. In the current study, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy of dexamethasone in preventing adverse events induced by TACE.
Methods:
Literature retrieval was conducted using globally recognized online databases, namely MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central, to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of dexamethasone application in patients undergoing TACE. The relative odds ratios (ORs) of incidence rates of three adverse events, namely, fever, abdominal pain and nausea/vomiting, were calculated. The value of I2 was applied to evaluate the heterogeneity of the trials, and the overall publication bias was assessed with Egger test.
Results:
Four RCTs containing 350 subjects were included for the pooled estimation. Dexamethasone significantly reduced the incidence rate of TACE-induced adverse events (OR = 1.237, 95% CI: 1.170–1.308, P < .001) with moderate heterogeneity (I2 = 46.0%). The result of Egger test revealed a publication bias for the included studies.
Conclusion:
The current meta-analysis confirmed the efficacy of dexamethasone in preventing TACE-induced adverse events. To confirm the practicality of dexamethasone use with TACE, further studies with large sample sizes are warranted to update the evidence-based analyses.
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