Introduction and Aims: There is a paucity of comprehensive information regarding the management and outcomes of orthopaedic trauma. The aims of this project are to establish a comprehensive registry of orthopaedic injuries, treatments, complications and outcomes based on admissions to Level One Trauma Centres in Victoria.

Method: The Victorian Orthopaedic Trauma Outcomes Registry (VOTOR) has been established through a collaborative project involving Monash University and the Alfred and Royal Melbourne Hospitals. The registry prospectively collects data on all patients with an orthopaedic (bone or soft tissue) injury that are admitted to Victorian Level One Trauma Centres and are managed or followed-up by an orthopaedic unit or have a spinal injury. Data is collected from the patient’s medical record and includes information on demographics, injury diagnosis and treatment methods. Outcomes are measured at discharge and six and 12 months post-injury using patient-oriented measures.

Results: The VOTOR database was established in 2003. This process involved two key stages. The first stage was based on the development of standardised data collection methodology and quality control processes specific to orthopaedic trauma. The second stage involved the commencement of data collection and the administration of outcome measures. From August 18, 2003 until January 12, 2004, 850 participants were registered on the database and there was a greater than 80% response rate for administration of discharge outcome measures. The participants had a median age of 44 (range 16–104) years. There was a greater percentage of male patients (60%) than female patients (40%) and English was the preferred language for most participants (87%). Fortyfive percent of patients were provided with funding from the Transport Accident Commission (TAC). With respect to pre-injury status, the greatest proportion of participants were retired or pensioners (32%), while 14% were tradespersons and 11% had a professional occupation. Most participants achieved an education level of Year 9–11 (32%), followed by 19 percent that reached Year 12.

Conclusion: The VOTOR database provides a unique opportunity to comprehensively examine the nature of orthopaedic trauma. Patient-oriented outcomes associated with these injuries are currently being collected. This research is essential in determining the efficacy of different treatment methods, improving current management options and ultimately reducing the financial and social costs of orthopaedic trauma.