Loading...
Printed on 4/19/2026
For informational purposes only. This is not medical advice.
The YEARS algorithm is a streamlined PE diagnostic pathway that combines three clinical items with D-dimer thresholds. If none of the YEARS items are present, PE can be ruled out at a D-dimer threshold below 1000 ng/mL FEU. If one or more YEARS items are present, the threshold is below 500 ng/mL FEU. This approach can reduce unnecessary imaging while maintaining safety in appropriate pretest settings.
Formula: If YEARS items = 0, PE ruled out when D-dimer <1000 ng/mL FEU; if YEARS items ≥1, PE ruled out when D-dimer <500 ng/mL FEU.
The YEARS algorithm was prospectively evaluated to safely reduce CTPA utilization in suspected PE assessment.
The YEARS result indicates whether PE can be ruled out based on the number of YEARS clinical items and the corresponding D-dimer threshold. When below threshold, imaging is often avoidable; when at or above threshold, PE is not ruled out and imaging is usually required.
This is a diagnostic pathway tool and should be integrated with overall pretest assessment and local protocol.
Use YEARS when evaluating suspected PE in adults where a structured D-dimer-first pathway is appropriate. It is useful in ED and acute-care settings to reduce unnecessary CTPA while maintaining safety.
Apply only when the clinical scenario fits intended diagnostic use and no immediate hemodynamic instability mandates urgent imaging.
YEARS performance depends on correct clinical assessment of its subjective items, especially whether PE is most likely. Misclassification can alter thresholds and downstream decisions.
It should not be used as a stand-alone decision in unstable patients or when local assay units/thresholds are not aligned with pathway standards.
For related assessments, see Wells Score (PE), PERC Rule and Age-Adjusted D-dimer.
Disclaimer: This tool is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with questions about your health.
Calculate Wells Score for PE to estimate pretest probability and guide D-dimer testing versus direct CTPA for pulmonary embolism workup.
EmergencyUse PERC (Pulmonary Embolism Rule-out Criteria) to rule out PE in low-risk patients without D-dimer or CT when all 8 criteria are negative.
EmergencyCalculate age-adjusted D-dimer cutoffs to improve specificity in PE/DVT rule-out pathways for older adults.
EmergencyCalculate sPESI to estimate 30-day mortality risk in confirmed pulmonary embolism and support disposition decisions.