Pre-op
Baseline Data is collected- The most important against which to measure progress or decline later

• A joint score sheet and a health assessment form is filled in by the patient.
• The score sheets are checked for ambiguity and completeness with the patient contacted to correct any omissions
• The completed forms are then entered into a secure computer database

Theatre Outcome

• All joint arthroplasty including 1st and second stage revisions
• The theatre forms are completed by surgeons in theatre with dictated operation notes
• The data from the completed form is entered onto the database.

Post-op Follow-up Clinic

• 1st follow-up typically 6-8 weeks after the operation
• 2nd follow-up 6 months after the operation
• 3rd follow-up 12 months after operation
• Then an annual postal follow-up on the anniversary of the operation

Hip/knee/ ankle score sheets are given to patients on arrival at the clinic for completion whilst waiting to be seen.

Forms are checked for ambiguity by Outcome Centre staff.

Replaced with notes for clinical examination to be completed by Doctor.

All completed forms are then placed in box for collection.
The advantages of the prospective study are numerous:

• The data is continuously updated
• Patient selection for surgery is possible
• Long term follow-up of large numbers of patients
• A comparison of different prostheses can be made
• Feedback for Surgeons
• A measure of 'quality'
• Data for publications/presentations
• Tools to help in the development of new techniques and prostheses

Data Protection

All information provided to the centre will be treated in confidence and will not be disclosed to any third party without the individuals express permission.  The information is held on the Outcome Centre’s computer and is used to facilitate research into more effective arthroplastical treatments.  We are registered and comply with the conditions of informational use as specified by the Data Protection Act 1998.  Under the terms of the act, an individual has the right to obtain a copy of any information the Outcome Centre holds regarding that individual without undue delay.  Under the terms of this act you have the right to obtain a copy of the information the Outcome Centre holds about you without undue delay.