A multiple imputation method for sensitivity analyses of time-to-event data with possibly informative censoring

J Biopharm Stat. 2014;24(2):229-53. doi: 10.1080/10543406.2013.860769.

Abstract

This article presents a multiple imputation method for sensitivity analyses of time-to-event data with possibly informative censoring. The imputed time for censored values is drawn from the failure time distribution conditional on the time of follow-up discontinuation. A variety of specifications regarding the post-discontinuation tendency of having events can be incorporated in the imputation through a hazard ratio parameter for discontinuation versus continuation of follow-up. Multiple-imputed data sets are analyzed with the primary analysis method, and the results are then combined using the methods of Rubin. An illustrative example is provided.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Clinical Trials as Topic / statistics & numerical data
  • Data Interpretation, Statistical*
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Kaplan-Meier Estimate*
  • Time Factors
  • Withholding Treatment / statistics & numerical data*