Cost effectiveness of local collagen-gentamicin as prophylaxis for sternal wound infections in different risk groups

In a randomized trial addition of local collagen-gentamicin in the sternal wound reduced the rate of sternal wound infection (SWI) to about 50% compared to intravenous prophylaxis alone. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the economic rationale for its use in every-day clinical practice. This includes the question whether high-risk groups that may have particular benefit should be identified.

For each patient with SWI in the trial the costs attributable to the SWI were calculated. Risk factors for SWI were identified and any heterogeneity of the effect of the prophylaxis examined.

The mean cost of a SWI was about 14500 Euros. A cost effectiveness analysis showed that the prophylaxis was cost saving. The positive net balance was even higher in risk groups. Assignment to the control group, overweight, diabetes, younger age, mammarian artery use, left ventricular ejection fraction <35% and longer operation time were independent risk factors for infection.

The addition of local collagen-gentamicin to intravenous antibiotic prophylaxis was dominant, i.e. resulted in both lower costs and fewer wound infections.