Sickle cell disease: managing acute painful episodes in hospital

New evidence

We found 2 new studies in a search for randomised controlled trials and systematic reviews published on 1 January 2014 and 16 February 2016.

Evidence identified in previous surveillance 2 years after publication of the guideline was also considered. This included 1 study identified by search from the 2 year surveillance decision.

From all sources, 3 studies were considered to be relevant to the guideline.

We also checked for relevant ongoing research and none was identified.

See appendix A: summary of new evidence from surveillance and references for all new evidence considered.

Views of topic experts

We considered the views of topic experts, including those who helped to develop the guideline.

Views of stakeholders

Stakeholders commented on the decision not to update the guideline and to transfer the guideline to the static list. Overall, 2 stakeholders commented. See appendix B for stakeholders' comments and our responses.

One stakeholder suggested treatment outside the hospital setting should be included, however this is outside the current remit of the guideline and therefore not considered a priority at this time. No comments were received on the proposal to transfer the guideline to the static list therefore this guideline will be transferred to the static list. Both stakeholders disagreed with the decision to remove a research recommendation in relation to the cost effectiveness of daycare units compared to a hospital setting. As it relates to cost effectiveness, it is not expected that this research recommendation would be answered by systematic reviews or randomised controlled trials and a decision was made to retain it. No new ongoing or published studies were identified by the consultees.

See ensuring that published guidelines are current and accurate in 'Developing NICE guidelines: the manual' for more details on our consultation processes.

NICE Surveillance programme project team

Sarah Willett
Associate Director

Philip Alderson
Consultant Clinical Adviser

Katrina Sparrow
Technical Adviser

Besma Nash
Technical Analyst

The NICE project team would like to thank the topic experts who participated in the surveillance process.

ISBN: 978-1-4731-2045-7