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Reuse of disposable laparoscopic instruments: cost analysis
J G DesCôteaux1, L Tye, E C Poulin
1Department of Surgery, Hôpital du Saint-Sacrement, Université Laval, Québec.
Summary
Reusing disposable laparoscopic instruments can be cost-effective. This study found significant savings through reprocessing and reuse, demonstrating financial benefits under strict guidelines.
Area of Science:
- Medical Devices
- Surgical Instrumentation
- Health Economics
Background:
- Disposable laparoscopic instruments are widely used in minimally invasive surgery.
- The cost of purchasing new disposable instruments can be substantial.
- Reprocessing and reuse protocols for these instruments require careful evaluation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of reusing disposable laparoscopic instruments.
- To determine the financial benefits associated with reprocessing and reusing surgical tools.
- To identify the optimal number of reuses per instrument for cost efficiency.
Main Methods:
- A cost-analysis study was conducted on laparoscopic and thoracoscopic procedures.
- Data included instrument usage, purchase records, and reprocessing costs.
- Analysis focused on a 461-bed teaching hospital with established reuse protocols.
Main Results:
- Reprocessing costs ranged from $2.64 to $4.66 per instrument.
- Reusing 10 common instruments saved $491,910 in purchase costs over the study period.
- Instruments were reused between 1.7 and 68 times.
Conclusions:
- The reuse of disposable laparoscopic and thoracoscopic instruments is cost-effective.
- Strict guidelines and careful monitoring are essential for successful reuse.
- Significant cost savings can be achieved by implementing validated reprocessing protocols.