Advanced issues in the design and conduct of randomized clinical trials: the bigger the better?

Stat Med. 2002 Oct 15;21(19):2797-805. doi: 10.1002/sim.1283.

Abstract

Large trials provide more precise estimates of treatment effects than small trial (how good is the treatment?) and they may allow a few sensible and pre-defined sub-group analyses (for whom does the treatment work best?). But large trials will not get done unless they are simple and as part of normal clinical practice as possible.

MeSH terms

  • Atrial Fibrillation / pathology
  • Carotid Arteries / surgery
  • Carotid Stenosis / surgery
  • Humans
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic / methods*
  • Research Design*
  • Sample Size*
  • Stroke / prevention & control
  • Treatment Outcome