[Q.A.L.Y. index and assessment of cost efficiency of the cochlear implant in acquired profound deafness]

Cost utility analysis is a method of cost-effectiveness analysis which provides results in terms of cost per quality-adjusted life-year (Q.A.L.Y.). This method is progressively largely used for medical technology assessment. It permits cost-effectiveness comparisons between medical interventions. The cost per Q.A.L.Y. of cochlear implant was determined in 30 adult patients suffering from acquired profound deafness. This study indicates that this technology provides significant improvements and is quite cost-effective. However, as far as profound deafness is concerned, the reliability of Q.A.L.Y. needs to be improved.