Kaiser Permanente National Total Joint Replacement Registry: aligning operations with information technology

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Health Informatics
• Clinical Practice Management

Background:

• A Total Joint Replacement Registry was established in a large community practice.
• The registry aims to track implant use, monitor revisions/complications, manage recalls, and provide clinical feedback.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the development, implementation, and integration of a Total Joint Replacement Registry.
• To highlight the alignment of information technology and operational processes.

Main Methods:

• Utilized standardized electronic health record forms integrated into clinical workflow.
• Supplemented registry data with secondary sources (e.g., ICD-9 codes).
• Employed electronic screening algorithms and chart review for complication identification and quality control.

Main Results:

• Achieved 90% participation from 350 surgeons.
• Registry use informed implant recalls, contract decisions, and identified at-risk patients.
• Feedback led to practice changes, reducing specific arthroplasty types and minimally invasive procedures.

Conclusions:

• The Total Joint Replacement Registry successfully integrated IT and operations.
• Enhanced response to recalls/advisories, improved care quality, and cost-effectiveness.
• Created valuable research opportunities through data collection.