Table 2

Comparison of evidence available for a selection of commonly discussed perioperative interventions

Intervention

Cochrane systematic review

Systematic review

Large randomised controlled trial

Randomised controlled trial

Level 1 evidence (mortality)


Optimisation

1

2

1

> 10

Yes (systematic review)

Beta-blockade

0

0

0

3

Yes (small randomised controlled trial only)

Regional anaesthesia

3

> 10

0

> 10

Yes (systematic review)

Enteral nutrition

0

2

0

> 10

No

High O2

0

0

0

2

No

Normothermia

0

0

0

4

No

Critical care

0

0

0

0

No


Meeran and Grocott Critical Care 2005 9:81   doi:10.1186/cc2932