A prospective multicentre otology database

WHY IS AN INTERNATIONAL OTOLOGY DATABASE IMPORTANT? There are many reports on the outcome of otological interventions in the literature. However, it is difficult to make direct comparisons between these reports because of the lack of uniformity in reporting outcomes and patient selection. The aim is to create an interactive otology database for surgeons in the UK and Europe.

The proposed project is the creation of a common database on a website. Two levels of data entry are available: (1) level I: minimum database (only main outcomes are included; for any otolaryngologist in Europe who wishes to join), and (2) level II: comprehensive database (detailed information on pathologies, risk factors and surgical procedure are also recorded; for invited otologists). As both databases share the same core data, clinicians using database I can still compare their outcome with those using database II. There has already been an international consensus on the content of the common otology database. A previous pilot study by 3 different hospitals also confirmed the user-friendliness of data input and retrieval using the web-based system. The system is now ready for international implementation. WHO MIGHT BENEFIT FROM THE DATABASE AND HOW? The size of the database allows statistical analysis to be made on various otological interventions with sufficient power. The web-based system can be a useful learning tool for surgeons because it gives instant feedback to the individual surgeon. It also provides the opportunity for hospitals to collaborate in clinical trials using this common data entry system.