Development of a new data entry system suitable for the Japan Adult Cardiovascular Surgery Database

Purpose: Patient data related to cardiovascular surgery are usually managed separately by surgeons and clinical engineers in their respective data files. Recently, with our participation in the Japan Adult Cardiovascular Surgery Database (JACVSD), we newly prepared JACVSD-ready cardiovascular surgery data files by combining two data entry systems. Methods: We constructed a cardiovascular surgery database system using FileMaker Pro and FileMaker Server. When preparing the data files, we attempted to eliminate excessive labor during data input and to enable easy distinction of items for which input has not been completed. In addition, we added some items required for clinical work so the files could be used not only for registration with the JACVSD but also for clinical work. Results: All the items for the cases in 2005 and 2006 were input by the end of each year. Registration in the JACVSD in 2005 and 2006 was completed by the set deadline, except in one case in which the patient remained hospitalized at the time of the deadline. Conclusions: Our newly developed JACVSD-ready data files have increased the interest of surgeons in data entry and in collecting data. With the new system, we can manage patient data more easily and more effectively at low cost.