Cost-effectiveness of C-leg compared with non-microprocessor-controlled knees: a modeling approach

Area of Science:

• Prosthetics and Orthotics
• Health Economics
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Microprocessor-controlled knees (C-Leg) represent an advancement over non-microprocessor-controlled (NMC) knees.
• Evaluating the cost-effectiveness of advanced prosthetic technologies is crucial for healthcare decision-making.

Purpose of the Study:

• To estimate the costs and health outcomes associated with C-Leg and NMC prosthetic knees.
• To assess the cost-effectiveness of C-Leg compared to NMC knees using a decision-analytic model.

Main Methods:

• A decision-analytic Markov model was employed to estimate cost-effectiveness.
• Data were gathered through interviews with patients and prosthetists experienced with both C-Leg and NMC knees.
• Health-related quality of life was measured using quality-adjusted life years (QALYs).

Main Results:

• The mean incremental cost for the C-Leg was 7657 Euros, with an additional 2.38 QALYs gained.
• The cost per QALY gained for the C-Leg was estimated at 3218 Euros.
• This indicates a favorable cost-effectiveness ratio for the C-Leg.

Conclusions:

• Despite limited evidence, the C-Leg demonstrates positive health outcomes at an acceptable cost.
• Decision-makers should consider both costs and health outcomes (QALYs) when evaluating prosthetic knee options.
• The C-Leg appears to be a valuable and cost-effective treatment strategy for individuals requiring prosthetic knees.