---
title: >-
  Comparing causal estimands from a sequential nested trial emulation with a
  treatment decision design to a conventional single point randomized trial: A
  simulation study
description: >-
  Explore this publication on real-world evidence: Comparing causal estimands
  from a sequential nested trial emulation with a treatment decision design to
  a…
date: '2024-01-01'
author: Kathleen Hurwitz, M. Alan Brookhart, PhD, Catherine Wiener, Chase D. Latour
category: Publications
tags:
  - ISPE Annual Conference
  - Approval & Commercialization
  - 'Yes'
  - Oral Presentation
  - Methods/Pharmacoepi
  - R&D
canonical_url: >-
  https://www.headwaterscience.com/resources/publications/pub-ispe-annual-conference/comparing-causal-estimands-from-a-sequential-nested-trial/
source: Headwater Science
license: © 2026 Headwater Science. All rights reserved.
slug: comparing-causal-estimands-from-a-sequential-nested-trial
id: 56bPfT2PWlN8SNbldsMMvd
contentType: article
---

## Challenge

Sequential nested trial emulation and treatment decision designs address dynamic treatment questions differently, but no direct comparison of the causal estimands they target had been conducted.

## Solution

Target RWE researchers presented a formal comparison of causal estimands from sequential nested trial emulation versus treatment decision designs, clarifying when each design's estimand aligns with different regulatory and clinical decision-making objectives.

## Impact

Providing a principled framework for selecting between two major dynamic treatment study designs helps Target RWE and pharma partners choose the most appropriate design for their regulatory question.

## Use Cases / Links

Estimand comparison framework for sequential nested trial emulation vs. treatment decision design, Dynamic treatment study design selection guidance for regulatory-grade RWE submissions