Table 2 Quality assessment for non-randomized trials

A clearly stated aim

2

Inclusion of consecutive patients

2

Prospective data collection

0

Endpoints appropriate to the aim of the study

2

Unbiased assessment of the study endpoint

2

A follow-up period appropriate to the aims of study

2

Less than 5% loss to follow-up

2

Prospective calculation of the sample size

0

An adequate control group

2

Contemporary groups

0

Baseline equivalence of groups

2

Adequate statistical analyses

2

Total socre

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