2.7 Data synthesis and analysis
Study characteristics were reported descriptively. Dichotomous
variables, such as sex and adverse events, are reported as proportions,
n/N (%) and continuous outcomes reported as means, with standard
deviation (SD) if to describe sample variability. Meta-analysis,
sensitivity analyses and the use of Grading of Recommendations
Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) could not be conducted
due to the small number of studies and clinical heterogeneity. Thus a
narrative synthesis was conducted. The results are summarized
qualitatively, and are presented in order of the research questions,
separating data between randomised and non-randomised studies.