Procedure-specific risk: ACS NSQIP Surgical Risk Calculator

The American College of Surgeons (ACS) NSQIP Surgical Risk Calculator estimates the chance of complications (including death) within 30 days after surgery, using patient predictors (including ASA class) and the planned procedure (CPT code).

What outcomes does it estimate?

The tool provides estimates for multiple outcomes (e.g., serious complication, pneumonia, cardiac complication, surgical site infection, venous thromboembolism, renal failure, readmission, discharge to rehab, and mortality) depending on procedure.

How to use it well

1. Use the correct procedure code (your surgeon’s office can provide it).
2. Enter accurate health history (especially functional status, recent infection, cardiac/lung disease, diabetes, smoking).
3. Remember it is a population-based estimate; your clinicians may adjust based on details not in the model.