Cost analysis for thoracoscopy: thoracoscopic wedge resection and lobectomy

Area of Science:

• Thoracic Surgery
• Surgical Oncology
• Health Economics

Background:

• Video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) is an evolving minimally invasive technique.
• Assessing the economic impact of VATS compared to traditional open procedures is crucial for healthcare providers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a cost analysis comparing VATS and open techniques for wedge resections and lobectomies.
• To evaluate the financial implications of VATS in thoracic surgery.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 80 patients undergoing VATS or open procedures.
• Comparison of costs, operative times, and hospital stay lengths for wedge resections and lobectomies.

Main Results:

• VATS wedge resection: $1071 higher disposable costs, but shorter operative time and hospital stay, leading to lower total charges.
• VATS lobectomy: $3190 higher disposable costs, longer operative time, and similar hospital stay, resulting in higher total charges.

Conclusions:

• VATS wedge resection for nodules is cost-effective compared to open techniques.
• VATS lobectomy for lung cancer is more expensive than open lobectomy.