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# Sample size calculations for cluster randomised controlled trials with a fixed number of clusters

Hemming, Karla and Girling, Alan J and Sitch, Alice J and Marsh, Jennifer and Lilford, Richard J (2011) Sample size calculations for cluster randomised controlled trials with a fixed number of clusters. BMC Medical Research Methodology, 11 (1). p. 102. ISSN 1471-2288

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URL of Published Version: http://dx.doi.org/10.1186/1471-2288-11-102

Identification Number/DOI: doi:10.1186/1471-2288-11-102

Background
Cluster randomised controlled trials (CRCTs) are frequently used in health service evaluation. Assuming an average cluster size, required sample sizes are readily computed for both binary and continuous outcomes, by estimating a design effect or inflation factor. However, where the number of clusters are fixed in advance, but where it is possible to increase the number of individuals within each cluster, as is frequently the case in health service evaluation, sample size formulae have been less well studied.

Methods
We systematically outline sample size formulae (including required number of randomisation units, detectable difference and power) for CRCTs with a fixed number of clusters, to provide a concise summary for both binary and continuous outcomes. Extensions to the case of unequal cluster sizes are provided.

Results
For trials with a fixed number of equal sized clusters (k), the trial will be feasible provided the number of clusters is greater than the product of the number of individuals required under individual randomisation ($$n_i$$) and the estimated intra-cluster correlation ($$\rho$$). So, a simple rule is that the number of clusters ($$\kappa$$) will be sufficient provided:

$$\kappa$$ > $$n_i$$ x $$\rho$$

Where this is not the case, investigators can determine the maximum available power to detect the pre-specified difference, or the minimum detectable difference under the pre-specified value for power.

Conclusions
Designing a CRCT with a fixed number of clusters might mean that the study will not be feasible, leading to the notion of a minimum detectable difference (or a maximum achievable power), irrespective of how many individuals are included within each cluster.

Type of Work: Article 2011 (Publication) Colleges (2008 onwards) > College of Life & Environmental Sciences Department of Public Health, Epidemiology and Biostatistics R Medicine (General) University of Birmingham Biomed Central 961 YES

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