YEARS Algorithm (PE Exclusion) Calculator

YEARS Algorithm: Explanation and Clinical Context The YEARS algorithm is a clinical decision rule designed to safely exclude pulmonary embolism (PE) without the need for immediate imaging in selected patients. It incorporates three key clinical criteria: clinical signs of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), hemoptysis, and whether PE is considered the most likely diagnosis. The algorithm uses an age-independent D-dimer threshold of 500 ng/mL if any of the YEARS criteria are present, or 1000 ng/mL if none are present.

Patients with D-dimer levels below the corresponding threshold can safely avoid imaging, while those above the threshold should undergo computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA). The YEARS algorithm simplifies PE assessment, reduces unnecessary imaging, and maintains patient safety.