title: An Algorithm for Building an Electronic Database.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  We propose an algorithm on how to create a prospectively maintained database, which can then be used to analyze prospective data in a retrospective fashion. Our algorithm provides future researchers a road map on how to set up, maintain, and use an electronic database to improve evidence-based care and future clinical outcomes.
  
  
  METHODS
  The database was created using Microsoft Access and included demographic information, socioeconomic information, and intraoperative and postoperative details via standardized drop-down menus. A printed out form from the Microsoft Access template was given to each surgeon to be completed after each case and a member of the health care team then entered the case information into the database.
  
  
  RESULTS
  By utilizing straightforward, HIPAA-compliant data input fields, we permitted data collection and transcription to be easy and efficient. Collecting a wide variety of data allowed us the freedom to evolve our clinical interests, while the platform also permitted new categories to be added at will.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  We have proposed a reproducible method for institutions to create a database, which will then allow senior and junior surgeons to analyze their outcomes and compare them with others in an effort to improve patient care and outcomes. This is a cost-efficient way to create and maintain a database without additional software.
authors.affiliation: Department of Surgery, Maimonides Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY.
authors.forename: Wess A
authors.initials: WA
authors.lastname: Cohen
authors.affiliation: Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Maimonides Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY.
authors.forename: Lloyd B
authors.initials: LB
authors.lastname: Gayle
authors.affiliation: Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Maimonides Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY.
authors.forename: Nima P
authors.initials: NP
authors.lastname: Patel
keywords: breast; data collection; database; electronic database; reconstruction
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