CVSurgery Risk iPhone App

CVSurgery Risk is an iPhone application that provides the same functionality as the online cardiac surgery risk calculator derived from the Society of Thoracic Surgeons Adult Cardiac Surgery Database (dataset 2.61). Once downloaded, there is no need for an Internet connection for operation. Like the online version, the app allows the user to estimate risks for seven cardiac surgical procedures: CABG, Aortic Valve Replacement with or without CABG, Mitral Valve Replacement with or without CABG, and Mitral Valve Repair with or without CABG.

The risk calculator provides the user the ability to rapidly enter data and derive a risk estimate. All variable definitions are readily available by tapping on the label for that variable, which reveals an alert box with the complete STS data point explanation. Although the user can enter all of the patient’s data into the calculator, only the age of the patient and the planned procedure are required for a valid risk calculation. Just like the online calculator, missing but required patient information defaults to specified values based on the risk algorithm.

The overriding value of CVSurgery Risk Calculator lies in its convenience of use at the bedside and its ability to quickly provide objective measures of estimated risk for patients, family members, and for referring physicians. The interface is intuitive with excellent feedback when the user completes data entry either correctly or not.

The app is available for $3.99 on the iTunes Store by searching for CVSurgery Risk or going directly to its iTunes address at http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/cv-surgery-risk/id349618425?mt=8.