BMC neurology
Prediction of death by neurologic criteria in patients with non-traumatic acute brain injury: a systematic review and meta-analysis
By Schoene D, Nicklas M, Altarsha E and 5 others.
Abstract
Background
Robust predictors of death by neurologic criteria (DNC) after non-traumatic acute brain injury remain insufficiently defined. We therefore aimed to systematically synthesize the available evidence on prediction of DNC in non-traumatic brain injury.
Methods
We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, the Cochrane Library and Web of Science were searched to August 31, 2026. Eligible studies included randomized controlled trials, observational studies, case series and registry data. Studies were included in the quantitative synthesis when sufficient comparable data for the same prognostic factor were available from at least two studies. Pooled effect estimates were calculated using random-effects models. Risk of bias was assessed using the Quality in Prognosis Studies (QUIPS) tool. The certainty of evidence was assessed using the GRADE approach.