Study authors examined data from a prospective, multicenter cervical deformity database for patients who underwent cervical deformity surgery. The patients all had one year of follow-up and costs were assigned with the Medicare one-year average reimbursement rate. Eighty-four patients were included in the study.
Here are five findings.
1. The costs associated with patients of the most common indications include:
• Nine or more level posterior fusion: $76,617
• Four to eight level posterior fusion: $40,596
• Four to eight level posterior fusion with anterior fusion: $31,392
• Four to eight level anterior fusion: $31,392
• Four to eight level posterior re-fusion: $35,371
2. On average, the reimbursement was $55,097 at one year after surgery.
3. Eight patients required revision surgery and three patients died during the one-year postoperative period.
4. The cost-per-QALY for patients at the one-year follow up was $646,958 when using the EuroQol 5D calculations and $477,316 when using the NDI SF6D calculations.
5. For patients who are able to sustain the first year benefits, they will reach the higher threshold of cost-effectiveness in three to 4.5 years postoperatively.
“Longer follow-up is needed for a more definitive cost-analysis, but this data is an important first step in justifying cost-utility ratio for cervical deformity correction,” concluded the study authors.
More articles on spine surgery:
5 key notes on factors affecting cost of spine surgery for lumbar stenosis
16+ spine surgeons offering and examining disc regeneration
4 spine surgeons on technology innovation
At the Becker's 23rd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference, taking place June 11-13 in Chicago, spine surgeons, orthopedic leaders and ASC executives will come together to explore minimally invasive techniques, ASC growth strategies and innovations shaping the future of outpatient spine care. Apply for complimentary registration now.
