American College of Chest Physicians algorithm for lung resective surgery: Real-life validation

The ACCP algorithm remains a valid tool for the assessment of fitness for anatomical lung resection. Our data support some reworking of the algorithm (i.e. considering age >70 years and pneumonectomy in the decision algorithm as intermediate-risk determinants). Mortality continues to increase from 30 to 90 days with higher risk, and this should be considered in the risk/benefit analysis of therapeutic alternatives.