An Improved Statistical Method for Assessing the Results of Operation

Gary L. Grunkemeier, Louis E. Lambert, Lawrence I. Bonchek, Albert Starr

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

31 Scopus citations

Abstract

The advantages of the actuarial method of analyzing postoperative survival are now widely accepted. In evaluating the late results of heart valve replacement operations, however, certain nonfatal complications must also be considered. The use of individual event-free rates does not portray individual risk, since some valves have multiple complications. By using cumulative complication-free rates, however, it is possible to estimate the percentage of valves active and free from certain major complications for each postoperative interval. A series of actuarial curves is used, each of which represents a different major complication. These curves are subtracted progressively from the total of valves at risk, and an actuarial representation of complication-free survival results.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)289-298
Number of pages10
JournalAnnals of Thoracic Surgery
Volume20
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - 1975

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Surgery
  • Pulmonary and Respiratory Medicine
  • Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine

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