Desktop and mobile software development for surgical practice.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to develop a mobile software solution that will merge patient data with a centralized patient database, aid surgical decision making, and document clinical services.


METHODS
iIncise is a computerized, menu-driven database that was developed for real-time entry of historical, clinical, and laboratory data. Within the process, examination data, testing rationale, and test results are captured. AAST staging criteria are presented during data entry to describe and classify organ injuries accurately. A legible, time-stamped, conclusive report can be generated for printed or electronic entry into the medical record. The handheld version of the database runs on a Compaq iPAQ Pocket PC in either stand-alone mode or via LAN or WAN through the Internet. Microsoft Information Internet Server 5.0 provides data transaction services to Microsoft SQL Server 2000 to merge multiuser replicate data between the back ends stored on the desktop and handheld devices.


RESULTS
The printed report provides superior documentation for comprehensive evaluation and management services, including history and physical examination, documentation of medical decision making, appropriateness of diagnostic/or therapeutic services, and coordination of care in accordance with Health Care Financing Administration (HCFA) regulations.


CONCLUSIONS
Rapid data entry, ease of use, and appropriate documentation of detailed and legible patient visits and procedural notes are early benefits. Wireless data transmission between handheld devices and the desktop database provides the required speed, flexibility, and multitasking environment necessary for the mobile surgeon.
Oyama
Leslie
L
Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA.
Tannas
Henri Shay
HS
Moulton
Steve
S
D014487:Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, U.S.; D019992:Databases as Topic; D003658:Decision Making, Computer-Assisted; D013502:General Surgery / Q000639:trends*; D020408:Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet; D016347:Medical Records Systems, Computerized; D008838:Microcomputers / Q000191:economics / Q000639:trends; D010808:Physical Examination; D012106:Research / Q000191:economics; D012107:Research Design; D012984:Software / Q000191:economics / Q000639:trends*; D013813:Therapy, Computer-Assisted / Q000191:economics / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods; D014481:United States