Randomization in clinical studies / 대한마취과학회지

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.

How to Do Random Allocation (Randomization)

PURPOSE: To explain the concept and procedure of random allocation as used in a randomized controlled study. METHODS: We explain the general concept of random allocation and demonstrate how to perform the procedure easily and how to report it in a paper.