Meta-analysis for the effect of medical therapy vs. placebo on recovery of idiopathic sudden hearing loss.

Objectives: To estimate the effect of recovery of idiopathic sudden hearing loss under placebo (first aim) and under medical therapy (second aim).

Study Design: Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Methods: A total of 1,674 studies published between January 1974 and April 2009 were found following suggestions in the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews.