A Survey of Employed Orthopedic Surgeons Ability to Estimate Operating Room Device Costs

Orthopaedic devices represent a large amount of the overall cost incurred in the operating room. It is unknown if employed sports medicine surgeons are aware of the true prices of these devices. The purpose of this study was to assess sports medicine orthopaedic surgeons' knowledge of implant and device costs, as well of commonly used items in their operating rooms.

REDCap surveys were distributed to 18 orthopaedic surgeons who perform arthroscopic and sports medicine procedures. All surgeons are employed at a healthcare system spanning four different states. Surgeons estimated the cost of 26 items used in the operating room. A surgeon reported cost within 10% of the actual price was established as having awareness of that item's cost.

Response rate was 89% (16/18). Twenty-five percent (n = 4) of surgeons were within 10% of the actual cost of only one item (Swivelock 4.75mm). Forty-three percent (n = 7) were within 20% of the actual cost of one item (Achilles Allograft). Those who perceived they had the poorest insight into device costs were found to have the greatest difference between estimated and actual cost. Surgeons in our study were not aware of the cost of commonly used items and implants in the operating room. Surgeons with greater insight into this topic can contribute toward a more value-based delivery of care. These findings support engaging employed physicians with initiatives to increase their awareness of the actual cost of the care they deliver, benefiting the whole healthcare system.