The Role of Mathematics in Cardiac Surgery: A Surgeon's Perspective

Mathematics may not seem to be a natural part of medical practice, but some cardiac surgeons and other physicians see the two fields as inextricably tied. Math can play an important role in surgery and general medical practice--especially when used in evidence-based medicine.

Evidence-based Medicine

• Dr. David Eddy, a heart surgeon and mathematician, coined the term "evidence-based" medicine in the early 1980s. Evidence-based medicine looks at the actual outcomes of medical treatments and prevention techniques--often using mathematical models--to determine the best care for patients, rather than relying on traditional practice.

Mathematical Models

• Eddy and a team of scientists and physicians created a mathematical computer model called Archimedes, which can accurately determine the results of treatment and prevention protocols as well as the costs of these protocols.

Resource Efficiency

• Some of Eddy's mathematical models show wasted resources, especially in the use of annual chest X-rays to watch for heart problems and Pap smears for women who had a low risk of cervical cancer.

Patient Education

• Another benefit of evidence-based medicine is educating patients about the uncertainties of procedures and treatments like heart surgery. Educated patients are considerably less likely to undergo more risky, invasive procedures.

General Use

• Heart surgeons and other physicians use statistics and probability to interpret test results and determine the best treatment for a patient.