Machine learning in predicting outcomes for stroke patients following rehabilitation treatment: A systematic review

OBJECTIVE: This review aimed to summarize the use of machine learning for predicting the potential benefits of stroke rehabilitation treatments, to evaluate the risk of bias of predictive models, and to provide recommendations for future models. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This systematic review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA statement and the CHARMS checklist. The PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and CNKI databases were searched up to April 08, 2023. The PROBAST tool was used to assess the risk of bias of the included models. RESULTS: Ten studies within 32 models met our inclusion criteria. The optimal AUC value of the included models ranged from 0.63 to 0.91, and the optimal R(2) value ranged from 0.64 to 0.91. All of the included models were rated as having a high or unclear risk of bias, and most of them were downgraded due to inappropriate data sources or analysis processes. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: There remains much room for improvement in future modeling studies, such as high-quality data sources and model analysis. Reliable predictive models should be developed to improve the efficacy of rehabilitation treatment by clinicians.