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[Cost-effectiveness of laparoscopic versus open cholecystectomy]
Roosevelt Fajardo1, José Ignacio Valenzuela, Sandra Catalina Olaya
1Centro de Innovación y Educación en Salud, Fundación Santa Fe de Bogotá, DC, Colombia.
Biomedica : Revista Del Instituto Nacional De Salud
|June 8, 2012
Summary
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy offers lower costs and fewer complications than open surgery. This gallbladder removal method improves patient recovery and reduces healthcare expenses, making it a more cost-effective option.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Outcomes
- Health Economics
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Cholecystectomy, a common surgical procedure, has been evaluated in numerous cost and clinical studies.
- Comparative effectiveness research is crucial for optimizing patient care and resource allocation in surgical interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the cost-effectiveness of open versus laparoscopic cholecystectomy.
- To evaluate outcomes from both healthcare institution and patient perspectives.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective selection and prospective assessment of 376 patients undergoing cholecystectomy (open: 156, laparoscopic: 220) at two Colombian university hospitals.
- Analysis included complications, mortality, hospital stay, return to daily activities, surgery duration, direct medical costs, and patient out-of-pocket expenses.
Main Results:
- Laparoscopic cholecystectomy demonstrated significantly lower complication rates (6.4% vs. 13.5%), shorter hospital stays, and faster return to daily activities compared to open surgery.
- Laparoscopic procedures were shorter (22 min difference) and associated with lower direct medical costs (US$995 vs. US$1,048) and patient out-of-pocket expenses.
- Mortality rates were zero for both procedures.
Conclusions:
- Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is more cost-effective and associated with better patient outcomes than open cholecystectomy.
- The findings support laparoscopic cholecystectomy as a preferred method due to reduced costs and improved recovery for both institutions and patients.