Data Abstraction Error in Systematic Review of Global Longitudinal Strain Using Speckle-Tracking Echocardiography as a Mortality Predictor in Sepsis

Abstract

We followed with interest the systemic review from Vallabhajosyula and colleagues on global longitudinal strain in patients with sepsis, severe sepsis, and septic shock. The study included 5 studies with 561 patients in the final analysis. We would like to bring to your attention an error in data abstraction. In the study table 1, the total patients in study by Landesberg et al was erroneously reported as 225. On our review of Landesberg et al’s study, the total number of patients was 106, while 225 was the number of echocardiograms performed on the cohort of 106 patients. A recent publication by Sanfilippo et al concurs with our findings. We suggest correction of the error and revision of the study findings to reflect the actual number of patients in the final analysis from 561 to 455 patients. We understand that the error does not change the principal findings or conclusions of the study, as Vallabhajosyula et al did not combine the data by usage of meta-analysis methods and cited significant methodological and statistical differences between the studies.