Implementation of the Swedish Fracture Register

Large financial resources are needed to treat fractures. Surprisingly little is, however, known about actual numbers, treatment methods or outcomes. A large population-based observational study can add valuable knowledge, especially if patient-reported results are included. There is no previous national fracture register with prospectively collected data on fractures of all types, treated surgically as well as non-surgically. With the implementation of the Swedish Fracture Register (SFR), we have shown that this is possible. More than 285,000 fractures have been registered. The database is increasing at a rate of 70,000 fractures a year, i. e. one fracture every 7 min. The aim of this article is to describe the first seven years in the history of the SFR, with opportunities for the future as well as limitations.