An international otology database

There are many reports in the literature on the outcome of ear surgery. However, it is difficult to make comparisons from these reports because of a lack of uniformity in the way in which outcomes are reported. At the same time, the general public expects doctors to provide them with information regarding the benefits and risks of surgery. Many ear surgeons will not be able to provide this information because few have an up-to-date database. A group of otologists in Europe has attempted to establish a common otology database. The aim is to create a framework whereby surgeons in Europe can contribute to a common ear database using a web-based system. The proposed methodology involves two levels of data entry. Level 1 is a minimal database where the main outcomes are included. Level 2 is a comprehensive database where detailed information on pathologies, risk factors, and surgical procedures is also recorded. As both databases share the same core data, clinicians using database 1 can still compare their outcomes with those using database 2. Clinicians will be able to input and retrieve ear data onto or from the web-based database. There has already been an international consensus on the content of the common ear database. The website address is www.ear-audit.net. The international project has now been in operation for more than 6 months, and Ear UK has already given its endorsement. The founder members include 27 otologists from 12 European countries. The cumulative outcome from this group of surgeons will be used as the benchmark for the purpose of comparative audit. These benchmark sites will be subjected to regular external validation. The web-based system is interactive and gives instant feedback to individual surgeons who wish to compare their results to the benchmark. Therefore, it can be a good learning tool for trainees or less experienced surgeons. The common data entry system also provides an opportunity for clinicians to collaborate in clinical researc