Inception of an Australian spine trauma registry: the minimum dataset

Background The establishment of a spine trauma registry collecting both spine column and spinal cord data should improve the evidential basis for clinical decisions. This is a report on the pilot of a spine trauma registry including development of a minimum dataset. Methods A minimum dataset consisting of 56 data items was created using the modified Delphi technique. A pilot study was performed on 104 consecutive spine trauma patients recruited by the Victorian Orthopaedic Trauma Outcomes Registry (VOTOR). Data analysis and collection methodology were reviewed to determine its feasibility. Results Minimum dataset collection aided by a dataset dictionary was uncomplicated (average of 5 minutes per patient). Data analysis revealed three significant findings: (1) a peak in the 40 to 60 years age group; (2) premorbid functional independence in the majority of patients; and (3) significant proportion being on antiplatelet or anticoagulation medications. Of the 141 traumatic spine fractures, the thoracolumbar segment was the most frequent site of injury. Most were neurologically intact (89%). Our study group had satisfactory 6-month patient-reported outcomes. Conclusion The minimum dataset had high completion rates, was practical and feasible to collect. This pilot study is the basis for the development of a spine trauma registry at the Level 1 trauma center.