TY - JOUR AU - Jones, Benjamin G. AU - Streeter, Adam J. AU - Baker, Amy AU - Moyeed, Rana AU - Creanor, Siobhan PY - 2021 DA - 2021/03/31 TI - Bayesian statistics in the design and analysis of cluster randomised controlled trials and their reporting quality: a methodological systematic review JO - Systematic Reviews SP - 91 VL - 10 IS - 1 AB - In a cluster randomised controlled trial (CRCT), randomisation units are “clusters” such as schools or GP practices. This has methodological implications for study design and statistical analysis, since clustering often leads to correlation between observations which, if not accounted for, can lead to spurious conclusions of efficacy/effectiveness. Bayesian methodology offers a flexible, intuitive framework to deal with such issues, but its use within CRCT design and analysis appears limited. This review aims to explore and quantify the use of Bayesian methodology in the design and analysis of CRCTs, and appraise the quality of reporting against CONSORT guidelines. SN - 2046-4053 UR - https://doi.org/10.1186/s13643-021-01637-1 DO - 10.1186/s13643-021-01637-1 ID - Jones2021 ER -