This Article Full Text Full Text (PDF) Submit a response Alert me when this article is cited Alert me when eLetters are posted Alert me if a correction is posted Services Similar articles in this journal Alert me to new issues of the journal Download to citation manager Citing Articles Citing Articles via Google Scholar Google Scholar Articles by Sawa, T. Articles by Ohno-Machado, L. Search for Related Content PubMed Articles by Sawa, T. Articles by Ohno-Machado, L.

Generation of Dynamically Configured Check Lists for Intra-Operative Problems: Using a Set Covering Algorithm

Affiliations of the authors: Decision Systems Group, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Boston, Massachusetts.

Abstract

We present a prototype of a decision support system for anesthesia that applies set covering theory. The system is designed to generate dynamically configured check-lists for intra-operative problems. These lists have the potential to help anesthesiologists detect and manage problems in a timely manner. The items in the lists consist of major complications that should be considered for a particular case. A set covering algorithm that accommodates multiple problem sets was used to implement the prototype. A simulated case and the system behavior are presented. The ultimate goals of a system such as the one presented are to function as an intelligent alarm module for electronic monitors and to facilitate the task of correcting intra-operative problems.