Optimizing Outcomes with Clinical Data Registries.

Clinical data registries are platforms to extract, store, analyze, and disseminate large amounts of clinical data. The type of data contained in clinical data registries varies by the registry, and may include patient demographics, clinical examination findings, imaging and laboratory results, procedures performed, and patient-reported outcomes. When large numbers of participants submit data to a clinical data registry the data can then be analyzed in aggregate to answer new clinical questions. Analyses on the data may be performed to show outcomes over time, compare procedures, evaluate care patterns, among others. With the launch of an otolaryngology-specific clinical data registry, Regent, facial plastic and reconstructive surgeons have the opportunity to participate in a clinical data registry for the first time. Through broad participation in the registry, the specialty has a chance to optimize patient outcomes in a manner never before possible.