[Economic Short-Term Cost Model for Stereotactic Radiotherapy of Neovascular AMD].

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Radiation Oncology
• Health Economics

Background:

• Neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD) poses significant treatment challenges.
• Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) therapy is a standard treatment, but some patients show insufficient response.
• Stereotactic radiation therapy (OT) is a second-line option for non-responsive neovascular AMD cases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the short-term economic impact of incorporating stereotactic radiation therapy (OT) into the treatment of neovascular AMD.
• To compare the costs of conventional anti-VEGF therapy with and without a single OT treatment over a two-year period.

Main Methods:

• A two-year cost model was developed using data from the INTREPID trial and German treatment practices.
• Costs analyzed included direct savings from reduced anti-VEGF injections, follow-up visits, and fewer treatment switches.
• Univariate sensitivity analysis was performed to assess uncertainties in cost estimations.

Main Results:

• Combining OT with anti-VEGF therapy is projected to reduce direct costs by approximately €4,500 over two years due to fewer intravitreal injections.
• Additional savings ranging from €207 to €1,224 are estimated from reduced follow-up visits and aids.
• Overall predicted cost reductions are between €6,400 and €8,500 over two years, exceeding the cost of a single OT application.

Conclusions:

• Short-term economic analysis indicates that combining anti-VEGF therapy with OT leads to cost savings that surpass the initial cost of OT.
• This combined therapeutic approach presents potential cost reductions for neovascular AMD management when applied to appropriate patient indications.