How do researchers determine the difference to be detected in superiority trials? Results of a survey from a panel of researchers

BackgroundThere is currently no guidance for selecting a specific difference to be detected in a superiority trial. We explored 3 factors that in our opinion should influence the difference to be detected (type of outcome, patient age group, and presence of treatment side-effects), and 3 that should not (baseline level of risk, logistical difficulties, and cost of treatment).MethodsWe conducted an experimental survey using a factorial design …