1 Mortality until discharge Show forest plot

12

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

1.1 All infants in all studies

12

2028

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.97 [0.83, 1.14]

1.2 Birth weight > 1000 grams

1

97

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.95 [0.34, 2.62]

1.3 Enteral

3

445

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.92 [0.63, 1.35]

1.4 Enteral hypertonic formulation, at pharmacologic doses

1

149

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.95 [0.62, 1.46]

1.5 Parenteral with or without enteral

9

1583

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.98 [0.83, 1.17]

1.6 Parenteral with hypertonic enteral formulation at pharmacologic dose

5

1247

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.99 [0.82, 1.20]

1.7 Intravenous (with or without other routes of administration)

2

832

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.04 [0.82, 1.32]

1.8 Excluding intravenous vitamin E administration

10

1196

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.92 [0.75, 1.14]

1.9 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group <= 30 IU/kg/day

5

575

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.89 [0.60, 1.34]

1.10 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group > 30 IU/kg/day

6

1396

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.99 [0.83, 1.17]

1.11 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group <= 3.5 mg/dl

7

1157

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.95 [0.75, 1.19]

1.12 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group >3.5 mg/dl

5

871

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.00 [0.80, 1.24]

1.13 Onset of vitamin E supplementation in the treatment group within 48 hours of life

11

1998

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.97 [0.83, 1.14]

1.14 Onset of treatment after 48 hours of life

1

30

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.0 [0.0, 0.0]

1.15 Duration of treatment <= 1 week (7 days)

4

475

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.81 [0.56, 1.18]

1.16 Duration of treatment > 1 week

7

1008

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.02 [0.82, 1.28]

1.17 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group <= 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

9

1613

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.99 [0.82, 1.19]

1.18 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group > 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

3

415

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.92 [0.68, 1.24]

1.19 Iron supplementation > 2 mg/kg/day in both groups

1

30

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.0 [0.0, 0.0]

1.20 Iron supplementation > 2 mg/kg/day in neither group

1

266

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.86 [0.40, 1.85]

1.21 PUFA >= 400 mg/100 ml milk

1

266

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.86 [0.40, 1.85]

2 Mortality until discharge among very low birth weight infants Show forest plot

8

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

2.1 All infants in all studies

7

1334

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.97 [0.80, 1.16]

2.2 Birth weight <= 1500 grams

6

1187

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.93 [0.75, 1.15]

2.3 Birth weight > 1000 grams

2

496

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.11 [0.74, 1.67]

2.4 Birth weight <= 1000 grams

4

449

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.95 [0.77, 1.17]

2.5 Enteral

3

445

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.92 [0.63, 1.35]

2.6 Enteral hypertonic formulation, at pharmacologic doses

1

149

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.95 [0.62, 1.46]

2.7 Parenteral with or without enteral

4

889

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.98 [0.79, 1.21]

2.8 Parenteral with hypertonic enteral formulation at pharmacologic dose

1

168

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.69 [0.38, 1.24]

2.9 Intravenous (with or without other routes of administration)

1

545

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.00 [0.75, 1.34]

2.10 Excluding intravenous vitamin E supplementation

6

789

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.94 [0.73, 1.19]

2.11 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group <= 30 IU/kg/day

2

268

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.86 [0.40, 1.85]

2.12 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group > 30 IU/kg/day

4

1009

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.97 [0.80, 1.18]

2.13 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group <= 3.5 mg/dl

5

642

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.85 [0.63, 1.17]

2.14 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group >3.5 mg/dl

2

692

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.04 [0.82, 1.31]

2.15 Onset of vitamin E supplementation in the treatment group within 48 hours of life

6

1304

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.97 [0.80, 1.16]

2.16 Onset of treatment after 48 hours of life

1

30

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.0 [0.0, 0.0]

2.17 Duration of treatment <= 1 week (7 days)

1

168

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.69 [0.38, 1.24]

2.18 Duration of treatment > 1 week

6

1166

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.01 [0.83, 1.23]

2.19 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group <= 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

5

1019

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.98 [0.78, 1.23]

2.20 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group > 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

2

315

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.93 [0.67, 1.29]

2.21 Iron supplementation > 2 mg/kg/day in both groups

1

30

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.0 [0.0, 0.0]

2.22 Iron supplementation > 2 mg/kg/day in neither group

1

266

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.86 [0.40, 1.85]

2.23 PUFA >= 400 mg/100 ml milk

1

266

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.86 [0.40, 1.85]

3 Bronchopulmonary dysplasia Show forest plot

7

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

3.1 All infants in all studies

6

1127

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.91 [0.73, 1.14]

3.2 Enteral

1

266

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.83 [0.50, 1.38]

3.3 Parenteral with or without enteral

6

912

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.96 [0.75, 1.23]

3.4 Parenteral with hypertonic enteral formulation at pharmacologic dose

3

771

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.93 [0.73, 1.20]

3.5 Intravenous (with or without other routes of administration)

1

545

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.91 [0.68, 1.21]

3.6 Excluding intravenous vitamin E administration

5

582

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.92 [0.64, 1.31]

3.7 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group <= 30 IU/kg/day

4

498

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.93 [0.63, 1.38]

3.8 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group > 30 IU/kg/day

3

680

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.93 [0.71, 1.22]

3.9 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group <= 3.5 mg/dl

3

352

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.91 [0.56, 1.50]

3.10 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group > 3.5 mg/dl

4

826

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.93 [0.73, 1.20]

3.11 Onset of treatment within 48 hours of life

7

1178

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.93 [0.74, 1.16]

3.12 Duration of treatment <= 1 week

3

141

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

6.04 [0.30, 119.88]

3.13 Duration of treatment > 1 week

3

492

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.92 [0.64, 1.31]

3.14 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group <= 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

6

1078

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.91 [0.72, 1.16]

3.15 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group > 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

1

100

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.13 [0.49, 2.60]

3.16 Iron supplementation >2 mg/kg/day in both groups

1

10

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.0 [0.0, 0.0]

3.17 Iron supplementation > 2 mg/kg/day in neither group

2

291

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.83 [0.50, 1.38]

3.18 PUFA >= 400 mg/100 ml milk

1

266

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.83 [0.50, 1.38]

3.19 Vitamin A supplementation in both groups >= 1500 IU/day

1

35

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.0 [0.0, 0.0]

4 Bronchopulmonary dysplasia among very low birth weight infants Show forest plot

4

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

4.1 All infants in all studies

4

972

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.89 [0.71, 1.13]

4.2 Enteral

1

266

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.83 [0.50, 1.38]

4.3 Parenteral with or without enteral

3

706

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.92 [0.70, 1.19]

4.4 Parenteral with hypertonic enteral formulation at pharmacologic dose

1

545

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.91 [0.68, 1.21]

4.5 Intravenous (with or without other routes of administration)

1

545

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.91 [0.68, 1.21]

4.6 Excluding intravenous

3

427

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.88 [0.59, 1.30]

4.7 Total dose of vitamin E <= 30 IU/kg/day

2

392

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.88 [0.59, 1.30]

4.8 Total dose of vitamin E > 30 IU/kg/day

2

580

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.91 [0.68, 1.21]

4.9 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group <= 3.5 mg/dl

2

301

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.83 [0.50, 1.38]

4.10 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group > 3.5 mg/dl

2

671

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.92 [0.70, 1.19]

4.11 Onset of vitamin E supplementation in the treatment group within 48 hours of life

4

972

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.89 [0.71, 1.13]

4.12 Duration of treatment <= 1 week

1

35

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.0 [0.0, 0.0]

4.13 Duration of treatment > 1 week

2

392

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.88 [0.59, 1.30]

4.14 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group <= 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

4

972

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.89 [0.71, 1.13]

4.15 Iron supplementation >2 mg/kg/day in both groups

1

10

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.0 [0.0, 0.0]

4.16 Iron supplementation > 2 mg/kg/day in neither group

2

291

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.83 [0.50, 1.38]

4.17 PUFA >= 400 mg/100 ml mik

1

266

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.83 [0.50, 1.38]

4.18 Vitamin A supplementation in both groups >= 1500 IU/day

1

35

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.0 [0.0, 0.0]

5 Bronchopulmonary dysplasia among surviving patients Show forest plot

4

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

5.1 All infants in all studies

4

322

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.15 [0.84, 1.58]

5.2 Enteral

1

101

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.18 [0.63, 2.21]

5.3 Enteral hypertonic formulation at pharmacologic dose

1

101

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.18 [0.63, 2.21]

5.4 Parenteral with or without enteral

3

221

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.14 [0.80, 1.64]

5.5 Parenteral with hypertonic enteral formulation at pharmacologic dose

1

135

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.99 [0.55, 1.76]

5.6 Excluding intravenous vitamin E administration

4

322

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.15 [0.84, 1.58]

5.7 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group <= 30 IU/kg/day

2

86

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.35 [0.91, 2.02]

5.8 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group > 30 IU/kg/day

2

236

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.07 [0.70, 1.64]

5.9 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group <=3.5 mg/dl

3

287

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.14 [0.75, 1.74]

5.10 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group >3.5 mg/dl

1

35

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.18 [0.82, 1.71]

5.11 Onset of vitamin E supplementation in the treatment group within 48 hours of life

4

322

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.15 [0.84, 1.58]

5.12 Duration of treatment <=1 week (7 days)

2

186

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.12 [0.64, 1.96]

5.13 Duration of treatment > 1 week

2

136

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.18 [0.81, 1.71]

5.14 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group > 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

1

135

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.99 [0.55, 1.76]

5.15 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group <= 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

3

187

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.26 [0.87, 1.83]

5.16 Iron supplementation > 2 mg/kg/day in both groups

1

51

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

6.04 [0.30, 119.88]

6 Bronchopulmonary dysplasia among surviving very low birth weight infants Show forest plot

2

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

6.1 All infants in all studies

2

236

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.07 [0.70, 1.64]

6.2 Enteral

1

101

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.18 [0.63, 2.21]

6.3 Enteral hypertonic formulation at pharmacologic dose

1

101

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.18 [0.63, 2.21]

6.4 Parenteral with or without enteral

1

135

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.99 [0.55, 1.76]

6.5 Parenteral with hypertonic enteral formulation at pharmacologic dose

1

135

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.99 [0.55, 1.76]

6.6 Excluding intravenous vitamin E administration

2

236

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.07 [0.70, 1.64]

6.7 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group > 30 IU/kg/day

2

236

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.07 [0.70, 1.64]

6.8 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group <=3.5 mg/dl

2

236

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.07 [0.70, 1.64]

6.9 Onset of vitamin E supplementation in the treatment group within 48 hours of life

2

236

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.07 [0.70, 1.64]

6.10 Duration of treatment <=1 week (7 days)

1

135

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.99 [0.55, 1.76]

6.11 Duration of treatment > 1 week

1

101

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.18 [0.63, 2.21]

6.12 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group > 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

1

135

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.99 [0.55, 1.76]

6.13 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group <= 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

1

101

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.18 [0.63, 2.21]

7 Radiographic signs of bronchopulmonary dysplasia persistent at 6 weeks ‐ 2 months Show forest plot

3

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

7.1 All infants in all studies

3

364

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.99 [0.67, 1.46]

7.2 Enteral

1

138

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.94 [0.51, 1.72]

7.3 Parenteral with or without enteral

2

226

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.02 [0.62, 1.70]

7.4 Parenteral with hypertonic enteral formulation at pharmacologic dose

2

226

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.02 [0.62, 1.70]

7.5 Excluding intravenous vitamin E administration

3

364

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.99 [0.67, 1.46]

7.6 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group <= 30 IU/kg/day

2

264

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.95 [0.61, 1.47]

7.7 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group > 30 IU/kg/day

1

100

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.13 [0.49, 2.60]

7.8 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group <=3.5 mg/dl

1

138

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.94 [0.51, 1.72]

7.9 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group >3.5 mg/dl

2

226

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.02 [0.62, 1.70]

7.10 Onset of vitamin E supplementation in the treatment group within 48 hours of life

3

364

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.99 [0.67, 1.46]

7.11 Duration of treatment > 1 week

3

364

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.99 [0.67, 1.46]

7.12 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group <= 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

2

264

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.95 [0.61, 1.47]

7.13 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group > 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

1

100

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.13 [0.49, 2.60]

7.14 Iron supplementation >2 mg/kg/day in neither group

1

138

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.94 [0.51, 1.72]

7.15 PUFA >= 400 mg/100 ml milk

1

138

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.94 [0.51, 1.72]

8 Radiographic signs of bronchopulmonary dysplasia at 6 weeks ‐ 2 months among very low birth weight infants Show forest plot

2

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

8.1 All infants in all studies

2

264

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.95 [0.61, 1.47]

8.2 Birth weight <= 1500 grams

2

264

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.95 [0.61, 1.47]

8.3 Birth weight <= 1000 grams

1

54

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.25 [0.72, 2.17]

8.4 Birth weight > 1000 grams

1

84

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.48 [0.09, 2.46]

8.5 Enteral

1

138

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.94 [0.51, 1.72]

8.6 Parenteral with or without enteral

1

126

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.96 [0.51, 1.83]

8.7 Parenteral with hypertonic enteral formulation at pharmacologic dose

1

126

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.96 [0.51, 1.83]

8.8 Excluding intravenous vitamin E administration

2

264

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.95 [0.61, 1.47]

8.9 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group <= 30 IU/kg/day

2

264

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.95 [0.61, 1.47]

8.10 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group <=3.5 mg/dl

1

138

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.94 [0.51, 1.72]

8.11 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group >3.5 mg/dl

1

126

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.96 [0.51, 1.83]

8.12 Onset of vitamin E supplementation in the treatment group within 48 hours of life

2

264

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.95 [0.61, 1.47]

8.13 Duration of treatment > 1 week

2

264

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.95 [0.61, 1.47]

8.14 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group <= 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

2

264

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.95 [0.61, 1.47]

8.15 Iron supplementation >2 mg/kg/day in neither group

1

138

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.94 [0.51, 1.72]

8.16 PUFA >= 400 mg/100 ml milk

1

138

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.94 [0.51, 1.72]

9 Patent ductus arteriosus Show forest plot

6

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

9.1 All infants in all studies

6

976

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.07 [0.93, 1.23]

9.2 Parenteral with or without enteral

6

976

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.07 [0.93, 1.23]

9.3 Parenteral with hypertonic enteral formulation at pharmacologic dose

4

918

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.08 [0.93, 1.25]

9.4 Intravenous (with or without other routes of administration)

1

545

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.09 [0.91, 1.31]

9.5 Excluding intravenous vitamin E administration

5

431

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.03 [0.83, 1.28]

9.6 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group <= 30 IU/kg/day

3

184

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.02 [0.75, 1.38]

9.7 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group > 30 IU/kg/day

3

792

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.08 [0.93, 1.26]

9.8 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group <=3.5 mg/dl

2

58

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.00 [0.69, 1.45]

9.9 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group >3.5 mg/dl

4

918

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.08 [0.93, 1.25]

9.10 Onset of vitamin E supplementation in the treatment group within 48 hours of life

5

947

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.08 [0.93, 1.24]

9.11 Duration of treatment > 1 week

5

431

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.03 [0.83, 1.28]

9.12 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group <= 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

4

729

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.07 [0.92, 1.25]

9.13 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group > 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

2

247

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.05 [0.77, 1.42]

10 Patent ductus arteriosus among very low birth weight infants Show forest plot

4

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

10.1 All infants in all studies

4

847

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.09 [0.93, 1.28]

10.2 Birth weight <= 1500 grams

3

700

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.08 [0.92, 1.27]

10.3 Birth weight <= 1000 grams

1

147

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.24 [0.55, 2.81]

10.4 Parenteral with or without enteral

4

847

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.09 [0.93, 1.28]

10.5 Parenteral with hypertonic enteral formulation at pharmacologic dose

1

545

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.09 [0.91, 1.31]

10.6 Intravenous with our without other routes of administration

1

545

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.09 [0.91, 1.31]

10.7 Excluding intravenous administration

3

302

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.10 [0.78, 1.54]

10.8 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group <= 30 IU/kg/day

2

155

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.05 [0.73, 1.52]

10.9 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group > 30 IU/kg/day

2

692

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.10 [0.93, 1.31]

10.10 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group <= 3.5 mg/dl

1

29

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.11 [0.66, 1.87]

10.11 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group >3.5 mg/dl

3

818

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.09 [0.93, 1.29]

10.12 Onset of vitamin E supplementation in the treatment group within 48 hours of life

4

847

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.09 [0.93, 1.28]

10.13 Duration of treatment > 1 week

3

302

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.10 [0.78, 1.54]

10.14 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group <= 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

3

700

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.08 [0.92, 1.27]

10.15 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group > 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

1

147

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.24 [0.55, 2.81]

11 Patent ductus arteriosus among surviving patients (at 10 days‐10 weeks) Show forest plot

3

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

11.1 All infants in all studies

3

271

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.98 [0.70, 1.38]

11.2 Enteral

1

101

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.89 [0.35, 2.28]

11.3 Enteral hypertonic formulation at pharmacologic doses

1

101

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.89 [0.35, 2.28]

11.4 Parenteral with or without enteral

2

170

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.00 [0.70, 1.44]

11.5 Parenteral with hypertonic enteral formulation at pharmacologic dose

1

135

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.84 [0.54, 1.31]

11.6 Excluding intravenous administration

3

271

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.98 [0.70, 1.38]

11.7 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group <= 30 IU/kg/day

1

35

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.62 [0.84, 3.12]

11.8 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group > 30 IU/kg/day

2

236

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.85 [0.57, 1.27]

11.9 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group <= 3.5 mg/dl

2

236

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.85 [0.57, 1.27]

11.10 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group >3.5 mg/dl

1

35

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.62 [0.84, 3.12]

11.11 Onset of vitamin E supplementation in the treatment group within 48 hours of life

3

271

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.98 [0.70, 1.38]

11.12 Duration of treatment <= 1 week (7 days)

1

135

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.84 [0.54, 1.31]

11.13 Duration of treatment > 1 week

2

136

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.24 [0.72, 2.14]

11.14 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group <= 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

2

136

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.24 [0.72, 2.14]

11.15 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group > 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

1

135

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.84 [0.54, 1.31]

12 Patent ductus arteriosus among surviving very low birth infants (at 10 days‐10 weeks) Show forest plot

2

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

12.1 All infants in all studies

2

236

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.85 [0.57, 1.27]

12.2 Birth weight <= 1500 grams

2

236

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.85 [0.57, 1.27]

12.3 Enteral

1

101

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.89 [0.35, 2.28]

12.4 Enteral hypertonic formulation at pharmacologic doses

1

101

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.89 [0.35, 2.28]

12.5 Parenteral with or without enteral

1

135

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.84 [0.54, 1.31]

12.6 Parenteral with hypertonic enteral formulation at pharmacologic dose

1

135

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.84 [0.54, 1.31]

12.7 Excluding intravenous administration

2

236

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.85 [0.57, 1.27]

12.8 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group > 30 IU/kg/day

2

236

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.85 [0.57, 1.27]

12.9 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group <= 3.5 mg/dl

2

236

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.85 [0.57, 1.27]

12.10 Onset of vitamin E supplementation in the treatment group within 48 hours of life

2

236

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.85 [0.57, 1.27]

12.11 Duration of treatment <= 1 week (7 days)

1

135

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.84 [0.54, 1.31]

12.12 Duration of treatment > 1 week

1

101

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.89 [0.35, 2.28]

12.13 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group <= 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

1

101

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.89 [0.35, 2.28]

12.14 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group > 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

1

135

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.84 [0.54, 1.31]

13 Patent ductus arteriosus requiring treatment Show forest plot

3

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

13.1 All infants in all studies

3

675

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.02 [0.79, 1.31]

13.2 Enteral

1

30

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.0 [0.07, 14.55]

13.3 Parenteral with or without enteral

2

645

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.02 [0.79, 1.32]

13.4 Parenteral with hypertonic enteral formulation at pharmacologic dose

2

645

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.02 [0.79, 1.32]

13.5 Intravenous (with or without other routes of administration)

1

545

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.20 [0.89, 1.61]

13.6 Excluding intravenous treatment

2

130

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.56 [0.32, 0.97]

13.7 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group <= 30 IU/kg/day

1

545

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.20 [0.89, 1.61]

13.8 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group > 30 IU/kg/day

2

645

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.02 [0.79, 1.32]

13.9 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group <= 3.5 mg/dl

1

30

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.0 [0.07, 14.55]

13.10 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group >3.5 mg/dl

2

645

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.02 [0.79, 1.32]

13.11 Onset of vitamin E supplementation in the treatment group within 48 hours of life

2

645

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.02 [0.79, 1.32]

13.12 Duration of treatment > 1 week

2

130

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.56 [0.32, 0.97]

13.13 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group <= 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

2

575

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.20 [0.89, 1.60]

13.14 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group > 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

1

100

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.54 [0.31, 0.95]

13.15 Iron supplementation > 2 mg/kg/day in both groups

1

30

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.0 [0.07, 14.55]

14 Patent ductus arteriosus requiring treatment among very low birth weight infants Show forest plot

2

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

14.1 All infants in all studies

2

575

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.20 [0.89, 1.60]

14.2 Birth weight <= 1500 grams

2

575

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.20 [0.89, 1.60]

14.3 Enteral

1

30

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.0 [0.07, 14.55]

14.4 Parenteral with or without enteral

1

545

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.20 [0.89, 1.61]

14.5 Parenteral with hypertonic enteral formulation at pharmacologic dose

1

545

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.20 [0.89, 1.61]

14.6 Intravenous (with or without other routes of administration)

1

545

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.20 [0.89, 1.61]

14.7 Excluding intravenous treatment

1

30

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.0 [0.07, 14.55]

14.8 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group > 30 IU/kg/day

1

545

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.20 [0.89, 1.61]

14.9 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group <= 3.5 mg/dl

1

30

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.0 [0.07, 14.55]

14.10 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group >3.5 mg/dl

1

545

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.20 [0.89, 1.61]

14.11 Onset of vitamin E supplementation in the treatment group within 48 hours of life

1

545

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.20 [0.89, 1.61]

14.12 Onset of treatment after 48 hours of life

1

30

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.0 [0.07, 14.55]

14.13 Duration of treatment > 1 week

1

30

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.0 [0.07, 14.55]

14.14 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group <= 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

2

575

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.20 [0.89, 1.60]

14.15 Iron supplementation > 2 mg/kg/day in both groups

1

30

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.0 [0.07, 14.55]

15 Sepsis after study entry Show forest plot

4

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

15.1 All infants in all studies

4

1009

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.52 [1.13, 2.04]

15.2 Enteral

1

30

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.0 [0.36, 2.75]

15.3 Parenteral with or without enteral

3

979

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.57 [1.15, 2.14]

15.4 Parenteral with hypertonic enteral formulation at pharmacologic dose

3

979

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.57 [1.15, 2.14]

15.5 Intravenous

2

832

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.54 [1.07, 2.21]

15.6 Excluding intravenous vitamin E administration

2

177

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.49 [0.90, 2.46]

15.7 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group > 30 IU/kg/day

3

979

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.57 [1.15, 2.14]

15.8 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group <= 3.5 mg/dl

2

317

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.89 [0.45, 1.77]

15.9 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group > 3.5 mg/dl

2

692

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.72 [1.24, 2.40]

15.10 Onset of vitamin E supplementation in the treatment group within 48 hours of life

3

979

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.57 [1.15, 2.14]

15.11 Onset of treatment after 48 hours of life

1

30

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.0 [0.36, 2.75]

15.12 Duration of treatment > 1 week

3

464

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.27 [0.82, 1.96]

15.13 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group <= 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

3

862

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.48 [1.05, 2.08]

15.14 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group > 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

1

147

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.67 [0.93, 2.98]

15.15 Iron supplementation > 2mg/kg/day in both groups

1

30

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.0 [0.36, 2.75]

16 Sepsis after study entry among very low birth weight infants Show forest plot

5

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

16.1 All infants in all studies

4

807

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.53 [1.13, 2.08]

16.2 Birth weight <= 1500 grams

2

575

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.65 [1.13, 2.40]

16.3 Birth weight <= 1000 grams

2

232

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.32 [0.79, 2.22]

16.4 Enteral

1

30

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.0 [0.36, 2.75]

16.5 Parental with or without enteral

3

777

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.59 [1.15, 2.18]

16.6 Parenteral with hypertonic enteral formulation at pharmacologic dose

0

0

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.0 [0.0, 0.0]

16.7 Intravenous

2

630

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.56 [1.07, 2.27]

16.8 Excluding intravenous vitamin E supplementation

3

326

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.35 [0.86, 2.12]

16.9 Total dose of vitamin E supplementation in the treatment group > 30 IU/kd/day

3

777

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.59 [1.15, 2.18]

16.10 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group <= 3.5 mg/dl

2

115

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.74 [0.33, 1.64]

16.11 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group > 3.5 mg/dl

2

692

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.72 [1.24, 2.40]

16.12 Onset of vitamin E supplementation in the treatment group within 48 hours of life

3

777

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.59 [1.15, 2.18]

16.13 Onset of treatment after 48 hours of life

1

30

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.0 [0.36, 2.75]

16.14 Duration of treatment > 1 week

3

262

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.26 [0.79, 1.99]

16.15 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group <= 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

3

660

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.49 [1.04, 2.13]

16.16 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group > 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

1

147

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.67 [0.93, 2.98]

16.17 Iron supplementation > 2mg/kg/day in both groups

1

30

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.0 [0.36, 2.75]

17 Sepsis after study entry among very low birth weight infants treated for > 1 week Show forest plot

4

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

17.1 All infants in all studies

4

726

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.63 [1.17, 2.26]

17.2 Birth weight <= 1500 grams

3

641

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.79 [1.27, 2.53]

17.3 Birth weight <= 1000 grams

2

232

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.32 [0.79, 2.22]

17.4 Enteral

1

30

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.0 [0.36, 2.75]

17.5 Parental with or without enteral

3

696

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.70 [1.20, 2.41]

17.6 Intravenous

2

549

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.72 [1.11, 2.66]

17.7 Excluding intravenous vitamin E supplementation

2

177

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.49 [0.90, 2.46]

17.8 Total dose of vitamin E supplementation in the treatment group > 30 IU/kd/day

3

696

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.70 [1.20, 2.41]

17.9 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group <= 3.5 mg/dl

2

115

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.74 [0.33, 1.64]

17.10 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group > 3.5 mg/dl

2

611

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.90 [1.31, 2.75]

17.11 Onset of vitamin E supplementation in the treatment group within 48 hours of life

3

696

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.70 [1.20, 2.41]

17.12 Onset of treatment after 48 hours of life

1

30

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.0 [0.36, 2.75]

17.13 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group <= 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

3

579

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.61 [1.08, 2.41]

17.14 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group > 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

1

147

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.67 [0.93, 2.98]

17.15 Iron supplementation > 2mg/kg/day in both groups

1

30

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.0 [0.36, 2.75]

18 Sepsis among surviving very low birth weight infants Show forest plot

2

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

18.1 All infants in all studies

2

284

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.88 [0.48, 1.62]

18.2 Enteral

1

149

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.99 [0.36, 2.67]

18.3 Enteral hypertonic formulation, at pharmacologic doses

1

149

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.99 [0.36, 2.67]

18.4 Parenteral with or without enteral

1

135

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.82 [0.38, 1.77]

18.5 Parenteral with hypertonic enteral formulation at pharmacologic dose

1

135

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.82 [0.38, 1.77]

18.6 Excluding intravenous vitamin E administration

2

284

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.88 [0.48, 1.62]

18.7 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group > 30 IU/kg/day

2

284

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.88 [0.48, 1.62]

18.8 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group <= 3.5 mg/dl

2

284

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.88 [0.48, 1.62]

18.9 Onset of vitamin E supplementation in the treatment group within 48 hours of life

2

284

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.88 [0.48, 1.62]

18.10 Duration of treatment <= 1 week

1

135

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.82 [0.38, 1.77]

18.11 Duration of treatment > 1 week

1

149

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.99 [0.36, 2.67]

18.12 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group <= 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

1

149

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.99 [0.36, 2.67]

18.13 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group > 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

1

135

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.82 [0.38, 1.77]

19 Germinal matrix/intraventricular hemorrhage (grades I‐IV) Show forest plot

7

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

19.1 All infants in all studies

7

1755

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.85 [0.73, 0.99]

19.2 Birth weight >= 1000 grams

1

760

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.29 [0.78, 2.14]

19.3 Parenteral with or without enteral

7

1755

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.84 [0.72, 0.98]

19.4 Parenteral with hypertonic enteral formulation at pharmacologic dose

4

1448

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.93 [0.78, 1.12]

19.5 Intravenous (with or without other routes of administration)

2

1201

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.02 [0.82, 1.28]

19.6 Excluding intravenous administration

5

554

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.71 [0.58, 0.87]

19.7 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group <= 30 IU/kg/day

3

307

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.65 [0.50, 0.85]

19.8 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group > 30 IU/kg/day

4

1448

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.93 [0.78, 1.12]

19.9 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group <= 3.5 mg/dl

2

515

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.82 [0.67, 1.00]

19.10 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group >3.5 mg/dl

5

1240

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.86 [0.68, 1.08]

19.11 Onset of vitamin E supplementation in the treatment group within 48 hours of life

7

1755

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.85 [0.73, 0.99]

19.12 Duration of treatment <= 1 week

3

307

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.65 [0.50, 0.85]

19.13 Duration of treatment > 1 week

3

534

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.88 [0.71, 1.09]

19.14 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group <= 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

5

1508

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.86 [0.73, 1.03]

19.15 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group > 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

2

247

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.75 [0.55, 1.04]

20 Germinal matrix/intraventricular hemorrhage among very low birth weight infants Show forest plot

3

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

20.1 All infants in all studies

3

777

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.94 [0.75, 1.18]

20.2 Birth weight <= 1500 grams

1

545

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.00 [0.68, 1.46]

20.3 Birth weight <= 1000 grams

3

377

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.88 [0.69, 1.11]

20.4 Birth weight 1001‐1500 grams

1

393

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.21 [0.69, 2.11]

20.5 Parenteral with or without enteral

3

777

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.94 [0.75, 1.18]

20.6 Parenteral with hypertonic enteral formulation at pharmacologic dose

3

777

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.94 [0.75, 1.18]

20.7 Intravenous (with or without other routes of administration)

2

630

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.07 [0.81, 1.40]

20.8 Excluding intravenous administration

1

147

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.70 [0.46, 1.04]

20.9 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group > 30 IU/kg/day

3

777

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.94 [0.75, 1.18]

20.10 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group <= 3.5 mg/dl

1

85

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.19 [0.85, 1.68]

20.11 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group >3.5 mg/dl

2

692

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.86 [0.65, 1.14]

20.12 Onset of vitamin E supplementation in the treatment group within 48 hours of life

3

777

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.94 [0.75, 1.18]

20.13 Duration of treatment > 1 week

2

232

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.90 [0.69, 1.17]

20.14 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group <= 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

2

630

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.07 [0.81, 1.40]

20.15 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group > 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

1

147

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.70 [0.46, 1.04]

21 Germinal matrix/intraventricular hemorrhage among patients with negative initial ultrasonogram Show forest plot

1

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

21.1 All infants in all studies

1

210

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.57 [0.40, 0.80]

22 Germinal matrix/intraventricular hemorrhage among survivors Show forest plot

3

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

22.1 All infants in all studies

3

335

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.06 [0.70, 1.60]

22.2 Enteral

1

149

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.27 [0.68, 2.36]

22.3 Enteral hypertonic formulation at pharmacologic doses

1

149

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.27 [0.68, 2.36]

22.4 Parenteral with or without enteral

2

186

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.91 [0.52, 1.58]

22.5 Parenteral with hypertonic enteral formulation at pharmacologic dose

1

135

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.88 [0.49, 1.57]

22.6 Excluding intravenous administration

3

335

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.06 [0.70, 1.60]

22.7 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group <= 30 IU/kg/day

1

51

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.22 [0.19, 7.98]

22.8 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group > 30 IU/kg/day

2

284

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.05 [0.69, 1.60]

22.9 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group <= 3.5 mg/dl

3

335

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.06 [0.70, 1.60]

22.10 Onset of vitamin E supplementation in the treatment group within 48 hours of life

3

335

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.06 [0.70, 1.60]

22.11 Duration of treatment <= 1 week

2

186

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.91 [0.52, 1.58]

22.12 Duration of treatment > 1 week

1

149

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.27 [0.68, 2.36]

22.13 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group <= 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

2

200

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.26 [0.70, 2.28]

22.14 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group > 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

1

135

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.88 [0.49, 1.57]

23 Germinal matrix/intraventricular hemorrhage among surviving very low birth weight infants Show forest plot

3

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

23.1 All infants in all studies

2

284

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.05 [0.69, 1.60]

23.2 Birth weight <= 1500 grams

2

284

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.05 [0.69, 1.60]

23.3 Birth weight <= 1000 grams

1

49

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.93 [0.40, 2.17]

23.4 Enteral

1

149

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.27 [0.68, 2.36]

23.5 Enteral hypertonic formulation at pharmacologic doses

1

149

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.27 [0.68, 2.36]

23.6 Parenteral with or without enteral

1

135

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.88 [0.49, 1.57]

23.7 Parenteral with hypertonic enteral formulation at pharmacologic dose

1

135

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.88 [0.49, 1.57]

23.8 Excluding intravenous administration

2

284

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.05 [0.69, 1.60]

23.9 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group > 30 IU/kg/day

2

284

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.05 [0.69, 1.60]

23.10 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group <= 3.5 mg/dl

2

284

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.05 [0.69, 1.60]

23.11 Onset of vitamin E supplementation in the treatment group within 48 hours of life

2

284

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.05 [0.69, 1.60]

23.12 Duration of treatment <= 1 week

2

186

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.91 [0.52, 1.58]

23.13 Duration of treatment > 1 week

1

149

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.27 [0.68, 2.36]

23.14 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group <= 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

2

200

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.26 [0.70, 2.28]

23.15 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group > 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

1

135

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.88 [0.49, 1.57]

24 Severe intraventricular hemorrhage (grade III‐IV) Show forest plot

3

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

24.1 All infants in all studies

3

644

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.91 [0.60, 1.38]

24.2 Parenteral with or without enteral

3

644

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.91 [0.60, 1.38]

24.3 Parenteral with hypertonic enteral formulation at pharmacologic dose

2

434

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.03 [0.67, 1.60]

24.4 Intravenous (with or without other routes of administration)

1

287

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.61 [0.88, 2.96]

24.5 Excluding intravenous vitamin E supplementation

2

357

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.51 [0.28, 0.94]

24.6 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group <= 30 IU/kg/day

1

210

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.30 [0.06, 1.42]

24.7 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group > 30 IU/kg/day

2

434

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.03 [0.67, 1.60]

24.8 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group <= 3.5 mg/dl

2

497

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.20 [0.70, 2.05]

24.9 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group > 3.5 mg/dl

1

147

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.59 [0.30, 1.15]

24.10 Onset of vitamin E supplementation in the treatment group within 48 hours of life

3

644

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.91 [0.60, 1.38]

24.11 Duration of treatment <= 1 week

1

210

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.30 [0.06, 1.42]

24.12 Duration of treatment > 1 week

2

434

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.03 [0.67, 1.60]

24.13 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group <= 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

2

497

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.20 [0.70, 2.05]

24.14 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group > 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

1

147

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.59 [0.30, 1.15]

25 Severe intraventricular hemorrhage among very low birth weight infants Show forest plot

2

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

25.1 All infants in all studies

2

434

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.03 [0.67, 1.60]

25.2 Birth weight <= 1000 grams

2

232

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.06 [0.63, 1.78]

25.3 Parenteral with or without enteral

2

434

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.03 [0.67, 1.60]

25.4 Parenteral with hypertonic enteral formulation at pharmacologic dose

2

434

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.03 [0.67, 1.60]

25.5 Intravenous (with or without other routes of administration)

1

287

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.61 [0.88, 2.96]

25.6 Excluding intravenous vitamin E supplementation

1

147

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.59 [0.30, 1.15]

25.7 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group > 30 IU/kg/day

2

434

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.03 [0.67, 1.60]

25.8 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group <= 3.5 mg/dl

1

287

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.61 [0.88, 2.96]

25.9 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group > 3.5 mg/dl

1

147

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.59 [0.30, 1.15]

25.10 Onset of vitamin E supplementation in the treatment group within 48 hours of life

2

434

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.03 [0.67, 1.60]

25.11 Duration of treatment > 1 week

2

434

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.03 [0.67, 1.60]

25.12 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group <= 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

1

287

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.61 [0.88, 2.96]

25.13 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group > 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

1

147

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.59 [0.30, 1.15]

26 Severe intraventricular hemorrhage among surviving very low birth weight infants Show forest plot

3

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

26.1 All infants in all studies

3

320

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.76 [0.41, 1.39]

26.2 Birth weight <= 1500 grams

2

236

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.29 [0.62, 2.66]

26.3 Birth weight <= 1000 grams

2

133

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.31 [0.10, 0.92]

26.4 Enteral

1

101

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.40 [0.62, 3.19]

26.5 Enteral hypertonic formulation at pharmacologic dose

1

101

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.40 [0.62, 3.19]

26.6 Parenteral with or without enteral

2

219

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.38 [0.14, 1.02]

26.7 Parenteral with hypertonic enteral formulation at pharmacologic dose

2

219

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.38 [0.14, 1.02]

26.8 Excluding intravenous vitamin E supplementation

3

320

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.76 [0.41, 1.39]

26.9 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group > 30 IU/kg/day

3

320

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.76 [0.41, 1.39]

26.10 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group <= 3.5 mg/dl

2

236

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.29 [0.62, 2.66]

26.11 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group > 3.5 mg/dl

1

84

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.2 [0.05, 0.85]

26.12 Onset of vitamin E supplementation in the treatment group within 48 hours of life

3

320

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.76 [0.41, 1.39]

26.13 Duration of treatment <= 1 week

1

135

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.99 [0.21, 4.71]

26.14 Duration of treatment > 1 week

2

185

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.72 [0.37, 1.39]

26.15 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group <= 10 mg/100 kcal

1

101

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.40 [0.62, 3.19]

26.16 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group > 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

2

219

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.38 [0.14, 1.02]

27 Parenchymal hemorrhage (grade IV) Show forest plot

2

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

27.1 All infants in all studies

2

497

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.35 [0.69, 2.67]

27.2 Parenteral with or without enteral

2

497

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.35 [0.69, 2.67]

27.3 Parenteral with hypertonic enteral formulation at pharmacologic dose

1

287

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

2.4 [1.02, 5.66]

27.4 Intravenous (with or without other routes of administration)

1

287

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

2.4 [1.02, 5.66]

27.5 Excluding intravenous vitamin E administration

1

210

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.30 [0.06, 1.42]

27.6 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group <= 30 IU/kg/day

1

210

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.30 [0.06, 1.42]

27.7 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group > 30 IU/kg/day

1

287

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

2.4 [1.02, 5.66]

27.8 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group <= 3.5 mg/dl

2

497

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.35 [0.69, 2.67]

27.9 Onset of vitamin E supplementation in the treatment group within 48 hours of life

2

497

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.35 [0.69, 2.67]

27.10 Duration of treatment <= 1 week

1

210

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.30 [0.06, 1.42]

27.11 Duration of treatment > 1 week

1

287

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

2.4 [1.02, 5.66]

27.12 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group <= 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

2

497

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.35 [0.69, 2.67]

28 Parenchymal hemorrhage among very low birth weight infants Show forest plot

1

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

28.1 All infants in all studies

1

85

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

9.21 [1.22, 69.58]

28.2 Birth weight <= 1000 grams

1

85

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

9.21 [1.22, 69.58]

29 Parenchymal hemorrhage among patients with negative initial ultrasonogram Show forest plot

1

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

29.1 All infants in all studies

1

210

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.30 [0.06, 1.42]

30 Parenchymal hemorrhage (Grade IV) among surviving very low birth weight infants Show forest plot

2

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

30.1 All infants in all studies

2

236

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.46 [0.46, 4.66]

30.2 Birth weight <= 1500 grams

2

236

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.46 [0.46, 4.66]

30.3 Birth weight <= 1000 grams

1

49

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.27 [0.01, 6.41]

30.4 Enteral

1

101

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

2.04 [0.54, 7.71]

30.5 Enteral hypertonic formulation at pharmacologic dose

1

101

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

2.04 [0.54, 7.71]

30.6 Parenteral with or without enteral

1

135

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.33 [0.01, 7.92]

30.7 Parenteral with hypertonic enteral formulation at pharmacologic dose

1

135

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.33 [0.01, 7.92]

30.8 Excluding intravenous vitamin E supplementation

2

236

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.46 [0.46, 4.66]

30.9 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group > 30 IU/kg/day

2

236

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.46 [0.46, 4.66]

30.10 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group <= 3.5 mg/dl

2

236

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.46 [0.46, 4.66]

30.11 Onset of vitamin E supplementation in the treatment group within 48 hours of life

2

236

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.46 [0.46, 4.66]

30.12 Duration of treatment <= 1 week

1

135

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.33 [0.01, 7.92]

30.13 Duration of treatment > 1 week

1

101

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

2.04 [0.54, 7.71]

30.14 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group <= 10 mg/100 kcal

1

101

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

2.04 [0.54, 7.71]

30.15 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group > 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

1

135

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.33 [0.01, 7.92]

31 Retrolental fibroplasia/retinopathy of prematurity Show forest plot

7

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

31.1 All infants in all studies

7

1342

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.90 [0.75, 1.09]

31.2 Enteral

1

268

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.67 [0.35, 1.31]

31.3 Parenteral with or without enteral

5

973

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.91 [0.75, 1.11]

31.4 Parenteral with hypertonic enteral formulation at pharmacologic dose

3

932

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.93 [0.77, 1.13]

31.5 Intravenous (with or without other routes of administration)

2

832

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.91 [0.75, 1.11]

31.6 Excluding intravenous vitamin E supplementation

5

510

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.85 [0.50, 1.43]

31.7 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group <= 30 IU/kg/day

3

374

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.67 [0.35, 1.31]

31.8 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group > 30 IU/kg/day

4

967

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.93 [0.77, 1.13]

31.9 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group <= 3.5 mg/dl

4

641

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.87 [0.59, 1.28]

31.10 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group > 3.5 mg/dl

3

700

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.91 [0.74, 1.13]

31.11 Onset of vitamin E supplementation in the treatment group within 48 hours of life

6

796

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.93 [0.65, 1.32]

31.12 Duration of treatment <= 1 week

3

141

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.0 [0.0, 0.0]

31.13 Duration of treatment > 1 week

3

655

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.93 [0.65, 1.32]

31.14 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group <= 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

6

1241

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.88 [0.73, 1.07]

31.15 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group > 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

1

100

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.27 [0.53, 3.02]

31.16 Iron supplementation >2 mg/kg in both groups

2

61

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.0 [0.0, 0.0]

31.17 Iron supplementation > 2 mg/kg in neither group

2

293

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.67 [0.35, 1.31]

31.18 Vitamin A supplementation in both groups >= 1500 IU/day

1

25

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.0 [0.0, 0.0]

31.19 PUFA >= 400 mg/100 ml milk

1

269

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.68 [0.35, 1.32]

32 Retrolental fibroplasia/retinopathy of prematurity among very low birth weight infants Show forest plot

5

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

32.1 All infants in all studies

5

975

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.88 [0.73, 1.07]

32.2 Birth weight <= 1500 grams

4

890

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.86 [0.70, 1.05]

32.3 Birth weight <= 1000 grams

1

85

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.23 [0.60, 2.53]

32.4 Enteral

1

268

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.67 [0.35, 1.31]

32.5 Parenteral with or without enteral

4

707

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.92 [0.75, 1.12]

32.6 Parenteral with hypertonic enteral formulation at pharmacologic dose

3

672

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.92 [0.75, 1.12]

32.7 Intravenous (with or without other routes of administration)

2

630

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.92 [0.74, 1.13]

32.8 Excluding intravenous vitamin E supplementation

3

345

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.75 [0.45, 1.24]

32.9 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group <= 30 IU/kg/day

1

268

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.67 [0.35, 1.31]

32.10 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group > 30 IU/kg/day

4

707

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.92 [0.75, 1.12]

32.11 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group <= 3.5 mg/dl

3

388

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.86 [0.53, 1.40]

32.12 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group > 3.5 mg/dl

2

587

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.89 [0.72, 1.10]

32.13 Onset of vitamin E supplementation in the treatment group within 48 hours of life

5

975

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.88 [0.73, 1.07]

32.14 Duration of treatment <= 1 week

1

35

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.0 [0.0, 0.0]

32.15 Duration of treatment > 1 week

3

395

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.87 [0.58, 1.32]

32.16 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group <= 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

4

933

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.88 [0.72, 1.08]

32.17 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group > 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

1

42

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.91 [0.42, 1.96]

32.18 Iron supplementation >2 mg/kg in both groups

1

10

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.0 [0.0, 0.0]

32.19 Iron supplementation > 2 mg/kg in neither group

2

293

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.67 [0.35, 1.31]

32.20 Vitamin A supplementation in both groups >= 1500 IU/day

1

35

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.0 [0.0, 0.0]

32.21 PUFA >= 400 mg/100 ml milk

1

268

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.67 [0.35, 1.31]

33 Retrolental fibroplasia/retinopathy of prematurity among infants examined/survivors Show forest plot

8

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

33.1 All infants in all studies

8

1666

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.90 [0.78, 1.03]

33.2 Enteral

2

354

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.90 [0.66, 1.23]

33.3 Enteral hypertonic formulation at pharmacologic doses

1

129

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.02 [0.72, 1.43]

33.4 Parenteral with or without enteral

5

1261

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.90 [0.77, 1.05]

33.5 Parenteral with hypertonic enteral formulation at pharmacologic dose

5

1261

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.90 [0.77, 1.05]

33.6 Intravenous (with or without other routes of administration)

2

953

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.86 [0.70, 1.04]

33.7 Excluding intravenous supplementation

6

713

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.96 [0.79, 1.15]

33.8 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group <= 30 IU/kg/day

2

324

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.74 [0.45, 1.22]

33.9 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group > 30 IU/kg/day

5

1291

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.92 [0.80, 1.06]

33.10 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group <= 3.5 mg/dl

4

687

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.96 [0.80, 1.15]

33.11 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group > 3.5 mg/dl

3

928

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.84 [0.69, 1.04]

33.12 Onset of vitamin E supplementation in the treatment group within 48 hours of life

7

1615

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.90 [0.78, 1.03]

33.13 Duration of treatment <= 1 week

1

135

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.03 [0.82, 1.28]

33.14 Duration of treatment > 1 week

6

1480

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.87 [0.74, 1.03]

33.15 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group <= 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

5

1406

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.86 [0.73, 1.02]

33.16 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group > 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

2

209

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.04 [0.83, 1.31]

33.17 Iron supplementation >2 mg/kg in both groups

1

51

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.0 [0.0, 0.0]

33.18 Iron supplementation > 2 mg/kg in neither group

1

225

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.70 [0.36, 1.35]

33.19 PUFA >= 400 mg/100 ml milk

1

225

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.70 [0.36, 1.35]

34 Retrolental fibroplasia/retinopathy of prematurity among very low birth weight infants examined Show forest plot

7

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

34.1 All infants in all studies

7

1090

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.94 [0.82, 1.07]

34.2 Birth weight <= 1500 grams

6

1054

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.92 [0.81, 1.06]

34.3 Birth weight <= 1000 grams

3

84

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.02 [0.81, 1.29]

34.4 Birth weight > 1000 grams

3

181

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.04 [0.76, 1.42]

34.5 Enteral

2

354

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.90 [0.66, 1.23]

34.6 Enteral hypertonic formulation at pharmacologic doses

1

129

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.02 [0.72, 1.43]

34.7 Parenteral with or without enteral

5

736

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.95 [0.82, 1.09]

34.8 Parenteral with hypertonic enteral formulation at pharmacologic dose

5

736

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.95 [0.82, 1.09]

34.9 Intravenous (with or without other routes of administration)

2

460

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.93 [0.77, 1.12]

34.10 Excluding intravenous supplementation

5

630

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.94 [0.78, 1.13]

34.11 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group <= 30 IU/kg/day

1

225

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.70 [0.36, 1.35]

34.12 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group > 30 IU/kg/day

6

865

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.96 [0.84, 1.09]

34.13 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group <= 3.5 mg/dl

4

525

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.98 [0.82, 1.18]

34.14 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group > 3.5 mg/dl

3

565

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.90 [0.74, 1.08]

34.15 Onset of vitamin E supplementation in the treatment group within 48 hours of life

7

1090

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.94 [0.82, 1.07]

34.16 Duration of treatment <= 1 week

1

135

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.03 [0.82, 1.28]

34.17 Duration of treatment > 1 week

5

531

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.92 [0.72, 1.18]

34.18 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group <= 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

5

913

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.91 [0.78, 1.07]

34.19 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group > 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

2

177

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.01 [0.81, 1.26]

34.20 Iron supplementation > 2 mg/kg in neither group

1

225

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.70 [0.36, 1.35]

34.21 PUFA >= 400 mg/100 ml milk

1

225

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.70 [0.36, 1.35]

35 Severe retrolental fibroplasia/retinopathy of prematurity (grade 3 or worse) Show forest plot

8

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

35.1 All infants in all studies

6

1565

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.72 [0.41, 1.25]

35.2 Enteral

1

29

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.0 [0.0, 0.0]

35.3 Parenteral with or without enteral

5

1297

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.73 [0.39, 1.37]

35.4 Parenteral with hypertonic enteral formulation at pharmacologic dose

4

1268

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.74 [0.41, 1.37]

35.5 Intravenous (with or without other routes of administration)

2

1042

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.86 [0.43, 1.72]

35.6 Excluding intravenous vitamin E supplementation

4

523

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.51 [0.20, 1.35]

35.7 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group <= 30 IU/kg/day

3

423

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.50 [0.15, 1.64]

35.8 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group > 30 IU/kg/day

3

1142

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.79 [0.41, 1.52]

35.9 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group <= 3.5 mg/dl

3

584

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.11 [0.53, 2.31]

35.10 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group > 3.5 mg/dl

3

981

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.39 [0.16, 1.00]

35.11 Onset of vitamin E supplementation in the treatment group within 48 hours of life

8

1882

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.68 [0.40, 1.14]

35.12 Duration of treatment > 1 week

6

1565

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.72 [0.41, 1.25]

35.13 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group <= 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

5

1465

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.76 [0.42, 1.35]

35.14 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group > 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

1

100

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.38 [0.04, 3.49]

35.15 Iron supplementation > 2 mg/kg in neither group

1

268

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.59 [0.14, 2.42]

35.16 PUFA >= 400 mg/100 ml milk

1

268

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.59 [0.14, 2.42]

36 Severe retrolental fibroplasia/retinopathy of prematurity (grade >= 3) among very low birth weight infants Show forest plot

6

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

Subtotals only

36.1 All infants in all studies

6

974

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.59 [0.32, 1.08]

36.2 Birth weight <= 1500 grams

5

889

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.40 [0.18, 0.87]

36.3 Birth weight <= 1000 grams

2

94

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.86 [0.35, 2.10]

36.4 Enteral

1

268

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.59 [0.14, 2.42]

36.5 Parenteral with or without enteral

5

706

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.59 [0.30, 1.16]

36.6 Parenteral with hypertonic enteral formulation at pharmacologic dose

4

677

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.59 [0.30, 1.16]

36.7 Intravenous (with or without other routes of administration)

2

509

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.74 [0.34, 1.61]

36.8 Excluding intravenous vitamin E supplementation

4

465

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.43 [0.16, 1.16]

36.9 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group <= 30 IU/kg/day

3

423

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.56 [0.19, 1.64]

36.10 Total dose of vitamin E in the treatment group > 30 IU/kg/day

3

551

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.61 [0.29, 1.27]

36.11 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group <= 3.5 mg/dl

3

382

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

1.01 [0.44, 2.32]

36.12 Serum tocopherol level in the treatment group > 3.5 mg/dl

3

592

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.34 [0.13, 0.87]

36.13 Onset of vitamin E supplementation in the treatment group within 48 hours of life

6

974

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.59 [0.32, 1.08]

36.14 Duration of treatment > 1 week

5

550

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.72 [0.36, 1.43]

36.15 Total dose of vitamin E in the control group <= 10 mg vit E/100 kcal

5

932

Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)

0.67 [0.35, 1.25]