Risk Prediction Models for Patients With Acute Heart Failure: A Protocol for Systematic Review, Critical Appraisal, and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Background Nearly a third of patients with acute heart failure (AHF) die or are readmitted within three months after discharge, accounting for the majority of costs associated with heart failure-related care. A considerable number of risk prediction models, which predict outcomes for mortality and readmission rates, have been developed and validated for patients with AHF. These models could help clinicians stratify patients by risk level and improve decision making, and provide specialist care and resources directed to high-risk patients. However, clinicians sometimes reluctant to utilize these models, possibly due to their poor reliability, the variety of models, and/or the complexity of statistical methodologies. Here, we describe a protocol to systematically review extant risk prediction models. We will describe characteristics, compare performance, and critically appraise the reporting transparency and methodological quality of risk prediction models for AHF patients. Method Embase, Pubmed, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library will be searched from their inception onwards. A back word will be searched on derivation studies to find relevant external validation studies. Multivariable prognostic models used for AHF and mortality and/or readmission rate will be eligible for review. Two reviewers will conduct title and abstract screening, full-text review, and data extraction independently. Included models will be summarized qualitatively and quantitatively. We will also provide an overview of critical appraisal of the methodological quality and reporting transparency of included studies using the Prediction model Risk of Bias Assessment Tool(PROBAST tool) and the Transparent Reporting of a multivariable prediction model for Individual Prognosis or Diagnosis(TRIPOD statement). Discussion The result of the systematic review could help clinicians better understand and use the prediction models for AHF patients, as well as make standardized decisions about more precise, risk-adjusted management. Systematic review registration : PROSPERO registration number CRD42021256416.