Korean J Anesthesiol.  2019 Jun;72(3):221-232. 10.4097/kja.19049.

Randomization in clinical studies

• Lim CY
• In J

• KMID: 2454880
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4097/kja.19049

Abstract

Randomized controlled trial is widely accepted as the best design for evaluating the efficacy of a new treatment because of the advantages of randomization (random allocation). Randomization eliminates accidental bias, including selection bias, and provides a base for allowing the use of probability theory. Despite its importance, randomization has not been properly understood. This article introduces the different randomization methods with examples: simple randomization; block randomization; adaptive randomization, including minimization; and response-adaptive randomization. Ethics related to randomization are also discussed. The study is helpful in understanding the basic concepts of randomization and how to use R software.

Keyword

Adaptive randomization; Minimization; Random allocation; Randomization; Randomized controlled trial; Restrictive randomization; Simple randomization; Stratified randomization

MeSH Terms

Bias (Epidemiology)
Ethics
Probability Theory
Random Allocation*
Selection Bias