Objective To seek the statistical solution in the comparison of different effects from multi-center randomized controlled trials （RCTs）. Methods The data collected from a multi-center RCT were used as the examples and processed by CMH test and meta-analysis. Results The result of CMH test indicated that the significant difference of the effect values existed among centers （P 〈0. 05 ）. While meta-analysis showed no significant difference （P 〉0.05 ） by heterogeneity test. However, when using fixed effect model, inter-group significant difference of merged effect values was observed （P 〈0.05 ）. Conclusions In the clinical research based on the method of multi-center RCT, met.a-analysis can be applied if the difference of inclination of the inter-group therapeutic effect is found among different centers. The proper mathematical model should be selected based on the result of heterogeneity test to merge and compare the effect values. The conclusions should be drawn from the results of both meta-analysis and CMH test.
Objective To evaluate the clinical effects of bronchial artery embolization ( BAE) for massive hemoptysis due to bronchiectasis.Methods 205 patients with massive hemoptysis were treated with bronchial artery embolization using coils, polyvinyl alcohol ( PVA) microspheres, line segmen, and gelatin sponge after the site of bleeding or the abnormal arteries were identified by arteriography. Super selective bronchial artery embolization was performed with a coaxial microcatheter inserted into the bronchial artery. Results BAE was successfully performed in 205 cases with massive hemoptysis ( left and right bronchial artery embolization in 35 cases, left bronchial artery embolization in 20 cases, right bronchial artery embolization in 126 cases, common bronchial artery embolization in 22 cases, right inferior phrenic artery embolization in 2 cases) . Of 205 patients, 169 were cured, 24 were relieved with a success rate of 94.1% . Long termcumulative hemoptysis nonrecurrence rates was 82.4% . 23 patients developed post embolization syndrome characterized by mild fever and chest pain and ended with spontaneous recovery without special management. No severe complications including spinal cord injury or dystopia embolization were observed. Conclusions Bronchial arterial embolization interventional therapy is a rapid, safe and effective method in the treatment of massive hemoptysis due to bronchiectasis.