Concepts and data model for a co-operative neurovascular database

Background. Problems of clinical management of neurovascular diseases are very complex. This is caused by the chronic character of the diseases, a long history of symptoms and diverse treatments. If patients are to benefit from treatment, then treatment decisions have to rely on reliable and accurate knowledge of the natural history of the disease and the various treatments. Methods, Recent developments in statistical methodology and experience from electronic patient records are used to establish an information infrastructure based on a centralized register. Results. A protocol to collect data on neurovascular diseases with technical as well as logistical aspects of implementing a database for neurovascular diseases are described. The database is designed as a co-operative tool of audit and research available to co-operating centres. Conclusion. When a database is linked to a systematic patient follow-up, it can be used to study prognosis. Careful analysis of patient outcome is valuable for decision-making.