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Review
. 2013 Mar;26(1):5-11.
doi: 10.1055/s-0033-1333627.

Working with existing databases

Melissa Murphy  1 , Karim Alavi  1 , Justin Maykel  1
Affiliations
Review

Working with existing databases

Melissa Murphy et al. Clin Colon Rectal Surg. 2013 Mar.

Abstract

Outcomes research has established itself as an integral part of surgical research as physicians and hospitals are increasingly required to demonstrate attainment of performance markers and surgical safety indicators. Large-volume and clinical and administrative databases are used to study regional practice pattern variations, health care disparities, and resource utilization. Understanding the unique strengths and limitations of these large databases is critical to performing quality surgical outcomes research. In the current work, we review the currently available large-volume databases including selection processes, modes of analyses, data application, and limitations.

Keywords: administrative; databases; outcomes; research.

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Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Large-volume administrative and clinical databases. ACTUR, automated Central Tumor Registry; CanCORS, Cancer Care Outcomes and Research Consortium; HCUP, Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project; KID, Kids Inpatient Database; NCDB, National Cancer Database; NIS, Nationwide Inpatient Sample; NSQIP, National Surgical Quality Improvement Program; NTDB, National Trauma Data Bank; SEER, The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program; SID, State Inpatient Database; UHC, University Healthsystem Consortium.
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