Meta-analysis reveals modest benefits of remote ischemic conditioning in improving functional recovery in acute ischemic stroke, indicating inconsistency in outcomes.
Key Points
Remote ischemic conditioning significantly improves functional independence (mRS 0-1) in acute ischemic stroke patients, yet inconsistencies remain across other outcomes.
In the pooled analysis of 25 trials with over 13,000 patients, the log odds ratio for mRS 0-1 was 0.36, supporting the efficacy of remote ischemic conditioning.
A comprehensive systematic search was conducted across various electronic databases to assess randomized controlled trials focused on remote ischemic conditioning in acute ischemic stroke.
The high levels of heterogeneity observed across trials indicate significant variability in protocols and patient characteristics, highlighting the need for standardized studies.