Outcomes analysis in spinal research. How clinical research differs from outcomes analysis.

Abstract

This article discusses the outcomes research movement and makes a distinction between clinical research that includes measures of function and quality of life as variables, and outcomes measurement for operational purposes such as quality assurance and reporting to insurers and regulatory agencies. Suggestions are made about how to begin outcomes data collection in an orthopedic clinic setting and how to select which patient outcomes may be most relevant to the assessment of treatment for spinal deformities.