Use of the World Wide Web in research: Randomization in a multicenter clinical trial of treatment for twin-twin transfusion syndrome

Objective: To describe the process involved in using the World Wide Web to coordinate a randomized, multicenter international trial of treatment for t win-twin transfusion syndrome. Method: A Web site was designed by members of the research team, a Web cons ultant, and a senior computer programmer. The original intent was to provid e patient randomization only, but the Web site later was designed so that c enters could download a data collection form. Data could be entered directl y into the Web site and subsequently imported into a database at the coordi nating center. Experience: The Web site has been active for 3 years, with 13 participating centers and 31 patients enrolled. C omment: Use of the World Wide Web to coordinate an international, multicent er trial is an efficient method. Although there are many benefits, the most obvious is the capability to initiate and conduct a large international tr ial at minimal cost. (Obstet Gynecol 2000;96:636-9. (C) 2000 by The America n College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.).