[Hemodynamics studies with the new generation portable systems: cost-benefit analysis]

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Medical Imaging
• Health Economics

Context:

• Coronary angiography is crucial for ischemic heart disease but often limited to major centers.
• Portable fluoroscopic systems aim to decentralize and reduce the cost of cardiac procedures.
• Evaluating new-generation portable systems for diagnostic and interventional cardiology is necessary.

Purpose:

• To assess the reliability and quality of coronary angiograms produced by a new-generation portable fluoroscopic system (OEC Medical System 9600).
• To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of using portable systems in a multipurpose cardiac catheterization laboratory.
• To determine the feasibility of routine use of portable fluoroscopic systems in diverse cardiac procedures.

Summary:

• A 1-year experience (1999) with the OEC Medical System 9600 involved 740 procedures, including 342 coronary angiograms.
• The system demonstrated reliable quality for coronary angiograms and suitability for routine use in various cardiac catheterization procedures.
• Mean cost savings of Itl 182,000 (94 Euro) per coronary angiography were observed compared to referral to a distant laboratory.

Impact:

• Portable fluoroscopic systems can enhance the accessibility and cost-effectiveness of coronary angiography.
• These systems support decentralized cardiac care, potentially improving patient outcomes for ischemic heart disease.
• The findings support the use of portable imaging in multipurpose cardiac labs, aligning with good laboratory performance and economic efficiency.