What is a nomogram?

A nomogram is a predictive tool that urologists use to assess the risk for certain pathologic outcomes.  The ability to predict this risk is based off thousands of patients who have had surgery and using their pre-surgery clinical factors to predict their pathologic outcomes.  Common nomograms used in urology for prostate cancer include the Partin Table and Memorial Sloan Kettering Nomogram.  Using a nomogram can allow your urologist to decide if you need a pelvic lymph node dissection or if you are a candidate for a nerve-sparing prostatectomy.