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Use of Local Morselized Bone Autograft in Minimally Invasive Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion: Cost Analysis
Dia R Halalmeh1, Mick J Perez-Cruet1
1Department of Neurosurgery, Oakland University William Beaumont, School of Medicine, Royal Oak, Michigan, USA.
World Neurosurgery
|November 1, 2020
Summary
Local morselized bone autograft (LMBA) significantly reduces costs in minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MI-TLIF) by decreasing allograft use. This study found substantial savings, demonstrating LMBA as a cost-effective option for spinal fusion.
Area of Science:
- Spine Surgery
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Health Economics
Background:
- Limited research exists on the financial impact of local morselized bone autograft (LMBA) in spinal arthrodesis.
- Understanding cost-effectiveness is crucial for optimizing surgical procedures and resource allocation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the cost savings associated with using LMBA versus no LMBA in spinal fusion.
- To compare the economic benefits of LMBA as a bone graft extender in minimally invasive procedures.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective cost analysis of 266 patients undergoing minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MI-TLIF).
- Data collected over approximately 4 years from single-center patient invoices.
- Sensitivity analyses performed on varying allograft and LMBA costs.
Main Results:
- Total cost savings of $1,094,931 over 4 years by incorporating LMBA.
- Mean direct cost savings of $4116.28 per patient due to reduced allograft utilization.
- Achieved a fusion rate exceeding 95% based on dynamic radiograph evaluation.
Conclusions:
- LMBA serves as a cost-saving bone graft extender in MI-TLIF procedures.
- Significant savings are realized by minimizing allograft requirements and overall bone graft expenses.
- Further investigation into the long-term economic advantages of LMBA is warranted.
