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MRI-guided and CT-guided cervical nerve root infiltration therapy: a cost comparison.
M H Maurer1, V Froeling1, R Röttgen1
1Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Charité University Medicine Berlin.
Rofo : Fortschritte Auf Dem Gebiete Der Rontgenstrahlen Und Der Nuklearmedizin
|December 19, 2013
Summary
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-guided cervical nerve root infiltration is twice as costly as computed tomography (CT)-guided procedures. However, MRI offers a radiation-free alternative for treating radicular neck pain.
Area of Science:
- Pain Management
- Minimally Invasive Procedures
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Radicular neck pain significantly impacts quality of life.
- Minimally invasive treatments aim to alleviate pain with reduced morbidity.
- Image-guided interventions are crucial for precise delivery of therapeutic agents.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the economic costs of MRI-guided versus CT-guided cervical nerve root infiltration.
- To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of different imaging modalities for this procedure.
Main Methods:
- A comparative cost analysis was performed on patients undergoing MRI-guided and CT-guided cervical nerve root infiltration.
- Costs included equipment use, personnel, and disposables.
- Ultrasound guidance costs were also calculated for comparison.
Main Results:
- MRI-guided infiltration averaged EUR 240 per patient, while CT-guided infiltration averaged EUR 124.
- Equipment costs were higher for MRI (EUR 150) compared to CT (EUR 60).
- Ultrasound guidance cost an average of EUR 76 per patient.
Conclusions:
- MRI-guided cervical nerve root infiltration is approximately twice as expensive as CT-guided infiltration.
- MRI offers a radiation-free alternative, potentially becoming more competitive with anticipated cost reductions.
- Ultrasound guidance remains the most cost-effective method for nerve root infiltration.
