SORT (Surgical Outcome Risk Tool)
Surgical Outcome Risk Tool: predicts 30-day mortality after inpatient non-cardiac surgery from six pre-operative variables (ASA grade, NCEPOD urgency, high-risk specialty, surgical severity, cancer, age). Derived from the NCEPOD 'Knowing the Risk' cohort.
Score interpretation
SORT predicted 30-day mortality below 1 %.
→ Standard perioperative care; elective post-op ward management appropriate; consent reflects low risk
SORT predicted 30-day mortality 1 % to < 5 %.
→ Anaesthetic review; HDU post-op planning; risk discussion with patient; document predicted mortality; optimise reversible risk factors; consider CPEX
SORT predicted 30-day mortality 5 % or more.
→ Senior consultant involvement; full MDT discussion; ICU planning; documented consent with estimated mortality; consider alternatives to surgery; perioperative specialist input (e.g. CPET, haematology for blood product planning)
Interpretation bands for the SORT. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.
References
- Protopapa KL et al. Development and validation of the Surgical Outcome Risk Tool (SORT). Br J Surg. 2014;101(13):1774–1783.
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
- POSSUM Score for Surgical Morbidity and Mortality · Perioperative Risk
- Revised Cardiac Risk Index (RCRI / Lee Index) · Perioperative Risk
- ASA Physical Status Classification · Perioperative Risk
- Gupta Perioperative Risk for MI or Cardiac Arrest (MICA) · Perioperative Risk
- AUB-HAS2 Cardiovascular Risk Index · Perioperative Risk
- Cardiovascular Risk in Orthotopic Liver Transplantation (CAR-OLT) Score · Perioperative Risk
- Tranexamic Acid (ICU/Trauma/Surgical) · Antifibrinolytic
- Ephedrine Hydrochloride 0.5% Nasal Drops · Nasal decongestant — sympathomimetic (perioperative / ENT use)
- Cefuroxime · Second-Generation Cephalosporin — Respiratory / Surgical Prophylaxis
- Cefazolin · First-Generation Cephalosporin (Surgical Prophylaxis)
- Palivizumab · RSV Prophylaxis — Monthly Monoclonal Antibody (High-Risk Infants)
- Cefazolin (Perioperative Burns) · First-Generation Cephalosporin
Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.