A Scientific Relational Database Combined with a Report Generator for Endoscopy in Networks: EndoNet

Abstract

Background and Study Aims: The flexibility required in academic endoscopy units is not provided by the available database systems. In a project involving substantial cooperation between endoscopists and computer scientists, we have developed an adaptable database, combined with a report generator embedded in the hospital's intranet.

Patients and Methods: Six workstations in different areas of the hospital were clustered with a UNIX operating system to implement multi-user capability and access control. A relational database was used to design an application appropriate to the specific needs of the endoscopy unit in a teaching hospital engaged in scientific research. Both the terminology used in standardized endoscopy nomenclature and a free text block facility were included. A graphical user interface was developed to assemble pertinent data, generate the reports, and supervise the database.

Results: A total of 4936 examinations including 2988 patients were entered consecutively during continuous routine operation of the system. Complete report generation required five minutes (median; range 1 - 9 minutes). Both structured items and free text were used in all the reports. Querying of the database was possible, concerning matters such as the need for repeated endoscopic therapy in acute gastrointestinal bleeding (4 %), the search for Helicobacter pylori in appropriate patients (64 %), the rate of accidental pancreatic duct visualization in endoscopic retrograde cholangiography (24 %), and links between examinations and active trials (2 %). Indicating improved report quality, the number and the diameter of esophageal varices in patients with varices were more frequently reported with the new report system than with previous typed reports (P < 0.001). An anonymous questionnaire revealed that the readability of the computer-generated reports was better than that of the previous typewritten reports (P = 0.01).

Conclusions: This report describes the creation of a database application and a report generator meeting the needs of scientific and routine use, and the successful application of this system in an academic endoscopy unit.