Computer corner #18. A computer program suitable for routine hip replacement follow up and clinical research.

A computer program was developed to facilitate routine follow up examination of patients with total hip replacements and to allow detailed analysis of the collected data for clinical research purposes. Information on more than 800 low friction arthroplasties has now been entered into the computer program. The system is versatile and can be modified to suit particular needs. The method of entering and recalling data can be learned rapidly by those unfamiliar with computers, however, analysis of the data requires advanced computer expertise. Hardware and software requirements for the program are listed at the end of this article.