Microcomputer-assisted filing system of cardiac catheterization records using a relational database management system.

ABSTRACT

To efficiently store and retrieve cardiac catheterization records, we have developed a computer-assisted database, which comprises a 16-bit microcomputer with dual floppy disk drives, a 20 MB random-access memory, hard disk drive, and a line printer. All programmings were accomplished using a relational database management system (Rbase 5000, Microrim, Inc.). Data inquiry procedures could be performed with direct operational commands of the system as well as with preprogrammed command files, and final results of searches were printed out with a line printer. The major advantages of the present system described in this report include (1) the relatively easy and rapid creation of the database, (2) ease of modification of the database structures even after the system design is finished, (3) operational commands in combination with conditional operator(s) are flexible and powerful enough to allow the end user to retrieve data based on various kinds of criteria, (4) a high-level programming language provided by the Rbase automates a series of database procedures with relative ease, (5) relational capabilities of the database management system can enhance the possibility of reconstruction of a new data file from a single or several preexisting data files, and (6) the system can be realized at reasonable cost.