IBM predictive analytics assist Calif. hospital

Sequoia Hospital, based in Redwood City, Calif., has reduced its mortality rate in cardiac surgeries more than 50 percent through the use of IBM predictive analytics software.

By analyzing a cardiac database of more than 10,000 patients, including demographics, types of surgeries, risk factors and outcomes, IBM predictive analytics informs doctors and recommends pre- and post-operative procedures to reduce complications, IBM, of Armonk, N.Y., stated.

Sequoia Hospital performs procedures ranging from stents and catheterizations to valve replacements, angioplasties and coronary bypass surgeries. The hospital uses the software to compile individual patient factors such as age, weight, current state of health, previous surgeries and number of procedures required, and analyzes and compares this data against similar national and local cases.

Cardiac surgeons at Sequoia Hospital refer to these analyses to determine if and when a patient is an appropriate candidate for surgery, IBM added.

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