1. What is the METs Equation?

The METs (Metabolic Equivalents) equation estimates a patient's functional capacity based on exercise duration. It's commonly used in pre-operative care to assess cardiovascular risk.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the METs equation:

Where:

• \( T \) — Time in minutes of exercise duration

Explanation: The equation calculates metabolic equivalents based on the duration of exercise, with higher values indicating better functional capacity.

3. Importance of METs Calculation in Pre-Op Care

Details: METs assessment helps identify patients at increased perioperative cardiovascular risk. Patients with <4 METs have higher risk of complications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the exercise duration in minutes. The value must be greater than 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are normal METs values?
A: Generally, >10 METs indicates excellent capacity, 7-10 good, 4-7 moderate, and <4 poor functional capacity.

Q2: How is exercise duration measured?
A: Typically measured as how long a patient can walk on a treadmill at a standardized protocol before becoming symptomatic.

Q3: What types of exercise can be used?
A: Treadmill testing is most common, but cycle ergometry or other standardized protocols can be used with appropriate conversion.

Q4: Are there limitations to this equation?
A: Accuracy may vary with different exercise protocols and patient populations. Clinical judgment should always be used.

Q5: How does this affect surgical planning?
A: Patients with <4 METs may need further cardiac evaluation or optimization before elective surgery.