Significance of the registry

Despite advances in the treatment of upper limb musculoskeletal conditions, there are gaps and controversies in the knowledge regarding specific patient, treatment and management factors that affect short- and long-term patient outcomes. In particular, it is unknown whether surgical management is superior to nonoperative management in the treatment of shoulder pathologies, and the relationship between modifiable and non-modifiable factors with respect to treatment success is not well documented in the literature. 

 

As such, the PROPELLER registry has been designed with an evidence-based approach to monitor and analyse patient outcomes associated with upper limb pathology. The registry aims to help inform and improve future surgical and patient management practices, and to reduce the occurrence of adverse events or complications. 

 

Frequently asked questions

 

What information does the registry collect?

 

Information required for the registry includes demographic information, relevant medical history, and results of questionnaires that are used to evaluate joint function and general health. 

 

How confidential is the information?

 

Information collected is only used for the purpose of this registry and associated research, and is not disclosed except as required by law. Only the study investigators and their staff have access to secured, identifiable data. When data is analysed to describe the effect of treatments, group analyses are performed and individual patients cannot be identified.  

 

What are the benefits of taking part in the registry?

 

For individual patients, there is the possibility of using the data in the registry to compare individual results to others that have presented with a similar problem and have received similar treatment. This may help patients monitor progression and make adjustments to treatment in consultation with their surgeon. In addition, ongoing research into orthopaedic treatments of the upper limb helps to maximise quality of care given to patients with similar shoulder problems in the future.