Table 10.
The levels and grade of evidence scaling criteria applied to the articles.
| Level of Evidence | Criteria |
|---|---|
| Level 1 | Randomized control trials without important limitations |
| Level 2 | • Randomized control trials with important limitations |
| • Observational studies (non-randomized clinical trials or cohort studies) with overwhelming evidence | |
| Level 3 | Other observational studies (prospective cohort studies, case-control studies, case series) |
| Level 4 | Inadequate or no data in population of interest |
| Anecdotal evidence or clinical experience | |
| Grade of Evidence | Criteria |
| Grade A | Strong recommendation (action can apply to most individuals in most circumstances) |
| • Benefits clearly outweigh risks (or vice-versa) | |
| • Evidence is at Level 1, 2, or 3 | |
| Grade B | Weak recommendation (action may differ depending on individual's characteristics or other circumstances) |
| • Unclear if benefits outweigh risks | |
| • Evidence is at Level 1, 2, or 3 | |
| Grade C | Consensus recommendation (alternative actions may be equally reasonable) |
| • Unclear if benefits outweigh risks | |
| • Evidence is at Level 3 or 4 | |