European orthopaedic trauma registries: perspectives from Belgium, Greece, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, and the United Kingdom.

Abstract

Objectives: To provide an overview of the current status and future directions of trauma registries across Europe, with specific examples from a range of countries.

Methods: Member countries of the International Orthopaedic Trauma Association were contacted to provide information on the development, current position, and future plans for trauma registries within their countries. Responses were received from 6 countries-Belgium, Greece, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, and the United Kingdom-providing an overview of practice across Europe.

Results: The background, evolution, and current status of trauma registries varies widely across Europe from highly mature systems to those in the early stages of development. Funding process, data management, and governance also differ between countries.

Conclusions: The trauma registries of Germany and the United Kingdom are the most mature and have provided the greatest output for research to date. However, the development of registries in other European countries will allow an increase in comparative data which can be used to drive standards for trauma care. Countries with more evolved registries can provide useful insights to those in development to assist in set-up and improve collaboration.