Simplified PESI (sPESI) Calculator
The simplified Pulmonary Embolism Severity Index (sPESI) estimates 30-day mortality in acute pulmonary embolism from six equally-weighted criteria; a score of 0 identifies low-risk patients who may suit outpatient care.
Quick answer
The simplified Pulmonary Embolism Severity Index (sPESI) scores six equally-weighted criteria β age over 80, cancer, chronic cardiopulmonary disease, heart rate 110 or more, systolic BP under 100, and oxygen saturation under 90% β each worth 1 point. A score of 0 is low risk (about 1% 30-day mortality); 1 or more is high risk.
Simplified PESI criteria
Low risk (~1.0β1.1% 30-day mortality) β may be considered for outpatient management with appropriate support.
An sPESI of 0. A score of 0 identifies low-risk patients who may suit outpatient management with support; 1 or more indicates higher risk. Right-heart strain, bleeding risk and clinical judgement also apply.
Validated formula
1 point for each present criterion (maximum 6): age >80; history of cancer; chronic cardiopulmonary disease; heart rate β₯110/min; systolic BP <100 mmHg; Oβ saturation <90%.
Interpretation
- 0β Low risk β ~1.0β1.1% 30-day mortality. May be considered for outpatient management with appropriate support.
- β₯1β High risk β ~8.9% 30-day mortality. Inpatient care and further risk stratification recommended.
How to use the sPESI calculator
- 1Tick the six criteria. Tick age over 80, history of cancer, chronic cardiopulmonary disease, heart rate 110 or more, systolic BP under 100 mmHg, and oxygen saturation under 90%.
- 2Read the total. The tool totals the points from 0 to 6.
- 3Interpret low vs high. A score of 0 identifies low-risk patients who may suit outpatient management with support; 1 or more indicates higher risk and inpatient care. A clinician decides.
Medical disclaimer: This is general health information, not medical advice. It does not diagnose or treat any condition, and the results are estimates based on public reference formulas. Always consult a qualified doctor about your individual health. If you think you may have a medical emergency, contact your local emergency services immediately.
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Book a consultationFrequently asked questions
What does a simplified PESI of 0 mean?β
A score of 0 indicates low 30-day mortality risk (about 1.0β1.1%). With appropriate support, some of these patients may be candidates for outpatient treatment, but the decision rests with the treating team.
Is sPESI as accurate as the full PESI?β
sPESI is simpler and identifies low-risk patients with comparable accuracy in validation studies, which is why it is widely used at the bedside. The full PESI gives more granular class-by-class mortality.
Can sPESI alone decide on outpatient treatment?β
No. A low sPESI is one input. Right-heart strain, bleeding risk, social factors and clinical judgement all matter, and a clinician makes the final decision.
Sources & validation
This calculator reproduces the published sPESI score, validated for 30-day mortality in acute pulmonary embolism (simplified).
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