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Cost-minimisation analysis of laparoscopic and open appendicectomy
A Kald1, E Kullman, B Anderberg
1Department of Surgery, University Hospital, Linköping, Sweden.
The European Journal of Surgery = Acta Chirurgica
|August 5, 1999
Summary
Laparoscopic appendicectomy is more expensive than open surgery due to higher direct costs. Both procedures offer similar recovery times and long-term outcomes, making open surgery more cost-effective.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Innovation
- Health Economics
- Comparative Effectiveness Research
Background:
- Appendicectomy is a common surgical procedure.
- Laparoscopic appendicectomy is increasingly adopted.
- Cost-effectiveness of surgical techniques requires evaluation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the direct and indirect costs of laparoscopic versus open appendicectomy.
- To assess the cost-effectiveness of each surgical approach.
Main Methods:
- Randomised controlled trial conducted at a university hospital in Sweden.
- Analysis of total costs over a defined period for both laparoscopic and open appendicectomy.
- Inclusion of 99 patients in the final analysis.
Main Results:
- Laparoscopic appendicectomy incurred higher direct costs (SEK 912 for materials, SEK 1785 for longer operating time).
- No significant differences were observed in mean hospital stay duration, indirect costs (time off work), or time to full recovery between the two groups.
- All patients achieved complete recovery within two months.
Conclusions:
- Laparoscopic appendicectomy presents higher direct costs compared to open appendicectomy.
- When long-term outcomes are comparable, open appendicectomy demonstrates greater cost-effectiveness.
- The findings suggest a need for careful consideration of cost implications in surgical technique selection.