ANZSCTS Cardiac Surgery Database Program: National Report 2014

This is the eighth National Report of the ANZSCTS Database Program. That is, the eighth year when information from meaningful numbers of patients who had cardiac surgery in States other than Victoria contributed to the database. The format of data presentation in the report enables individual units to compare their performance in certain outcomes to that of the other participants. Hospital and surgeon comparative data, where given, is coded. Each Unit will be informed of the codes relevant only to it. The format of data presentation in the report is unchanged. However, it is under discussion. We have canvassed contributors to the Program, indeed all ANZSCTS members, intending to ensure the report is increasingly useful and relevant. A revised dataset will be introduced in 2016. It will include new information that will form part of the formal review. Statistical analysis of Unit and Surgeon performance for coronary artery surgery involves CUSUM curves and Funnel Plots. Mortality data is risk-adjusted. The data in the Web-based National Unit Report module may be used by each Unit to compare its outcomes- on a broad range of parameters with that of the entire group. Indeed, Units may use the web-based Report to do so for individual surgeons. The Society will continue in its mission to ensure that high quality and safety standards are maintained in all Units undertaking cardiac surgical procedures in Australia. Gil Shardey, Chairman, Steering Committee