Cost-Effective Modeling for Management Options in Charcot Neuroarthropathy

Charcot neuropathic arthropathy (CN) impacts peripheral lower extremity nerves, leading to joint destruction, and has a significant economic burden on the healthcare system. This economic burden is further exacerbated by the projected increase in diabetes mellitus cases over the coming decades, with a corresponding anticipated rise in CN. This study assesses CN management costs through a single institution retrospective chart review and cost-effectiveness through economic modeling by utilizing a well-established equation to determine the cost-effectiveness of conservative management. This retrospective chart review from a single academic center analyzed costs and outcomes for CN patients undergoing exostectomy, arthrodesis, major amputation, minor amputation, or casting from 2000-2022. This retrospective review analyzed 216 CN patients (average age 58, 54% male). Costs were $57 949 for exostectomy, $149 009 for arthrodesis, $40 313 for major amputation, $55 035 for minor amputation, $125 851 for failed casting, and $8233 for casting. We conducted a break-even analysis that determined that intervention with casting was cost-effective compared to failed casting. Total contact casting is a cost-effective first-line treatment for CN, capable of managing non-advanced cases effectively and reducing the economic burden of surgical intervention. This study provides a critical framework for practitioners to assess cost-effectiveness in various institutional contexts.