Development of a user-defined surgical database using a personal computer network.

Advances in personal computer technology have made powerful methods for the collection and analysis of patient information available to clinical users. This report details the development of a multi-user database distributed across a network of personal computers that facilitates operative scheduling, and collection and analysis of operative data. Clinicians from each surgical service in our medical center developed customized data entry programs that contribute information centrally through a telephone-line network to prepare the daily operative schedule. Subsequently, information from the operating rooms is added to the preoperative database to form an operative log, which is distributed to client services for further analysis and modification. This system has improved the efficiency and accuracy of operative scheduling and information management and shifted the burden of data collection away from the physician. Widespread availability of these data has contributed to the development of an effective quality improvement program and facilitated effective management of personnel and resources.