Two reviewers extracted data to calculate mean differences (MD) and 95 % Confidence Intervals (CIs)
for length of hospital stay (LoS—primary outcome), Clinical Severity Score (CSS) and Serious Adverse Events (SAEs).
Meta-analysis was undertaken using a fixed effect model, supplemented with additional sensitivity analyses. We
investigated statistical heterogeneity using I2. Risk of bias, within and between studies, was assessed using the
Cochrane tool, an outcome reporting bias checklist and a funnel plot