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[Cost-effectiveness analysis of laparoscopic surgery versus methotrexate: comparison of data recorded in an ectopic
L Vaissade1, L Gerbaud, J-L Pouly
1Service d'Epidémiologie, Economie de la Santé et Prévention, CHU de Clermont-Ferrand, Hôtel Dieu, BP 69, 63003, Clermont-Ferrand Cedex 01.
Objectives:
To compare the cost efficacy ratios of medical therapy (methotrexate - MTX) and laparoscopic surgery for ectopic pregnancy, based on an observational study of effectiveness.
Material And Methods:
Data were collected by a population register of the Auvergne area. We computed the costs before, during and after hospitalization of women who could be treated either by MTX or laparoscopic surgery. We detailed costs related to the various existing facilities. We considered the entire treatment.
Results:
One hundred nine cases of ectopic pregnancy were treated by laparoscopic surgery and 46 by MTX. Second-line therapy was required in 3% of women who underwent laparoscopic surgery, and 35% of those given MTX. MTX was found to be less costly (1,342 euros) than laparoscopic surgery (2,113 euros). The efficacy threshold for MTX was 11% (giving a failure rate of 89%).
Conclusion:
MTX is much more cost effective than laparoscopic surgery but the frequent need for second-line treatment must also be assessed.