A chronological database to support outcomes research in prostate cancer.
OBJECTIVE
To outline the process for developing a data management system for patients with prostate cancer.


METHODS
Between 1997 and 2002, several generations of a working database using a Microsoft Access platform were developed for the tracking of patients with prostate cancer. The database evolved to include both the management of clinical practice and outcomes research. A chronological data system lists events by their date and value. Algorithms for data exporting can access these lists in defined ways to mine for specific parameters.


RESULTS
The most recent working model of our database was implemented with over 2000 patients entered and over 250,000 rows of data. It is utilized by the entire staff and is central for processing prostate cancer data within the department. Outcome studies have been performed using the system, and data export algorithm development remains ongoing.


CONCLUSIONS
This work demonstrates that functional database systems are possible for large clinics treating patients with prostate cancer. The ability to maintain up-to-the-minute data variables is vital not only for unbiased outcomes analysis, but for patient flow and care. Future systems will migrate to web platforms.
Potters
Louis
L
Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center at Mercy Medical Center, Rockville Centre, New York 11570, USA. PottersL@yahoo.com
Kattan
Michael W
MW
Fearn
Paul
P
D001918:Brachytherapy; D003628:Database Management Systems; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011379:Prognosis; D011471:Prostatic Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology / Q000532:radiotherapy*