A Computerized System for Recording Data in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

Abstract

Over the past five years, the authors have developed a computerized system to record and store all the data pertaining to an endoscopic examination of the upper digestive tract. The system was designed to permit the easy storage and retrieval of data by personnel who lack computer skills and who may only have limited typing ability. The system allows for the storage and rapid retrieval of patients' individual records, as well as correction and/or deletion of these records. The system prints out copies of preliminary endoscopic findings and produces a final copy which contains histological and cytological findings. The program utilizes a standardized nomenclature, which however permits the introduction of each user's code in 16 areas of classification. It is possible to analyze statistically and correlate the stored data, permitting easy use for clinical studies. The uniformity of the methods for storage of and access to patients' records and data, along with the support of a central computer, allows multi-centre studies in the field of epidemiology. As of January 1991 30 endoscopic centres in Portugal have been equipped with this system. Overall the experience in these centres has been positive, with excellent or good participation in 76.7 % of centres.