Cost-effectiveness analysis of a surveillance program to prevent hip dislocation in children with cerebral palsy

Area of Science:

• Health Economics
• Pediatric Orthopedics
• Public Health Surveillance

Background:

• Cerebral palsy (CP) poses risks for hip dislocation in children.
• Early detection and intervention are crucial for managing CP-related complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct an economic evaluation of a surveillance program for preventing hip dislocation in children with CP.
• To assess the cost-effectiveness of such a program from the perspective of the Spanish National Health Service.

Main Methods:

• A decision-analytical model was developed comparing outcomes with and without a surveillance program.
• Data from a 20-year follow-up study informed the model.
• Effectiveness was measured using Quality-Adjusted Life Years (QALYs), with extensive sensitivity analyses performed.

Main Results:

• The surveillance program resulted in higher QALYs and increased healthcare costs.
• The estimated incremental cost per QALY gained was €12,282.
• The program demonstrated over 80% probability of being cost-effective at a €25,000/QALY threshold.

Conclusions:

• Surveillance programs for preventing hip dislocation in children with CP are likely to be cost-effective.
• The findings support the implementation of such programs within healthcare systems.
• The economic benefits justify the investment in proactive monitoring for this population.