The Duke treadmill score was developed at Duke University in 1987 and is one of the best-validated ways to turn an exercise ECG into a prognosis. Low-risk patients have an annual mortality of about 0.25%, high-risk patients about 5%.
How to use the Duke Treadmill Score Calculator
- Exercise time (Bruce protocol)
- Maximum ST deviation
- Angina during the test
Results update as you type, and every field accepts the units shown in its menu.
How it works
Enter the exercise duration on the standard Bruce protocol, the largest ST deviation (other than in aVR) and the angina index.
Inputs explained
| Field | What to enter |
|---|---|
| Exercise time (Bruce protocol) | In min |
| Maximum ST deviation | In mm |
| Angina during the test | Choose one: None, Non-limiting angina, Angina that stopped the test |
Example values
How the main result changes when Exercise time changes and everything else stays at the example values above:
| Exercise time (Bruce protocol) (min) | Duke treadmill score |
|---|---|
| 4.5 | -0.5 |
| 6.75 | 1.8 |
| 9 | 4 |
| 11.25 | 6.3 |
| 13.5 | 8.5 |
| 18 | 13 |
Health note: this calculator is for education and screening only and is not a diagnosis or treatment advice. Discuss your results with a qualified clinician.
Formula
DTS = exercise time (min) − 5 × maximum ST deviation (mm) − 4 × angina index
Angina index: 0 none, 1 non-limiting, 2 exercise-limiting
Low risk ≥ 5 · moderate −10 to 4 · high ≤ −11
Worked example
Inputs — Exercise time (Bruce protocol): 9 min; Maximum ST deviation: 1 mm; Angina during the test: None.
Results — Duke treadmill score = 4; Risk group = Moderate risk (≈ 1.25%).
Key terms
- Bruce protocol
- Standard treadmill test with increasing speed and incline every 3 minutes.
Frequently asked questions
What is a good Duke treadmill score?
5 or higher.
Does it work for women?
It was validated in both men and women, though it predicts less well in women.
Does it apply to other protocols?
It was built for the Bruce protocol; other protocols need conversion.