1
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Lau VI, Xie F, Basmaji J, Cook DJ, Fowler R, Kiflen M, Sirotich E, Iansavichene A, Bagshaw SM, Wilcox ME, Lamontagne F, Ferguson N, Rochwerg B. Health-Related Quality-of-Life and Cost Utility Analyses in Critical Care: A Systematic Review. Crit Care Med 2021; 49:575-588. [PMID: 33591013 DOI: 10.1097/ccm.0000000000004851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Cost utility analyses compare the costs and health outcome of interventions, with a denominator of quality-adjusted life year, a generic health utility measure combining both quality and quantity of life. Cost utility analyses are difficult to compare when methods are not standardized. It is unclear how cost utility analyses are measured/reported in critical care and what methodologic challenges cost utility analyses pose in this setting. This may lead to differences precluding cost utility analyses comparisons. Therefore, we performed a systematic review of cost utility analyses conducted in critical care. Our objectives were to understand: 1) methodologic characteristics, 2) how health-related quality-of-life was measured/reported, and 3) what costs were reported/measured. DESIGN Systematic review. DATA SOURCES We systematically searched for cost utility analyses in critical care in MEDLINE, Embase, American College of Physicians Journal Club, CENTRAL, Evidence-Based Medicine Reviews' selected subset of archived versions of UK National Health Service Economic Evaluation Database, Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects, and American Economic Association electronic databases from inception to April 30, 2020. SETTING Adult ICUs. PATIENTS Adult critically ill patients. INTERVENTIONS None. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Of 8,926 citations, 80 cost utility analyse studies were eligible. The time horizon most commonly reported was lifetime (59%). For health utility reporting, health-related quality-of-life was infrequently measured (29% reported), with only 5% of studies reporting baseline health-related quality-of-life. Indirect utility measures (generic, preference-based health utility measurement tools) were reported in 85% of studies (majority Euro-quality-of-life-5 Domains, 52%). Methods of estimating health-related quality-of-life were seldom used when the patient was incapacitated: imputation (19%), assigning fixed utilities for incapacitation (19%), and surrogates reporting on behalf of incapacitated patients (5%). For cost utility reporting transparency, separate incremental costs and quality-adjusted life years were both reported in only 76% of studies. Disaggregated quality-adjusted life years (reporting separate health utility and life years) were described in only 34% of studies. CONCLUSIONS We identified deficiencies which warrant recommendations (standardized measurement/reporting of resource use/unit costs/health-related quality-of-life/methodological preferences) for improved design, conduct, and reporting of future cost utility analyses in critical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent I Lau
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, and Alberta Health Services, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence & Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Feng Xie
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence & Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - John Basmaji
- Department of Medicine, Division of Critical Care Medicine, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Deborah J Cook
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence & Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Division of Critical Care Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Robert Fowler
- Interdepartmental Division of Critical Care Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University Health Network, Ontario, ON, Canada
| | - Michel Kiflen
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence & Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Population Health Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Emily Sirotich
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence & Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | | | - Sean M Bagshaw
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, and Alberta Health Services, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - M Elizabeth Wilcox
- Interdepartmental Division of Critical Care Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University Health Network, Ontario, ON, Canada
| | - François Lamontagne
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Sherbrooke, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Niall Ferguson
- Interdepartmental Division of Critical Care Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University Health Network, Ontario, ON, Canada
| | - Bram Rochwerg
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence & Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Division of Critical Care Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
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2
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Wijnberge M, Rellum SR, Bruin S, Cecconi M, Oczkowski S, Vlaar AP. Erythropoiesis‐stimulating agents as replacement therapy for blood transfusions in critically ill patients with anaemia: A systematic review with meta‐analysis. Transfus Med 2020; 30:433-441. [DOI: 10.1111/tme.12715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2020] [Revised: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Marije Wijnberge
- Department of Anesthesiology Amsterdam UMC, Location AMC Amsterdam The Netherlands
- Department of Intensive Care Amsterdam UMC, Location AMC Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Santino R. Rellum
- Department of Anesthesiology Amsterdam UMC, Location AMC Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Sanne Bruin
- Department of Intensive Care Amsterdam UMC, Location AMC Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Maurizio Cecconi
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care Humanitas Clinical and Research Center‐IRCCS Milan Italy
- Humanitas University Milan Italy
| | - Simon Oczkowski
- Department of Medicine and Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact McMaster University Hamilton Canada
- Guidelines in Intensive Care, Development and Evaluation (GUIDE) Group Hamilton Canada
| | - Alexander P. Vlaar
- Department of Intensive Care Amsterdam UMC, Location AMC Amsterdam The Netherlands
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3
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES Cost-effectiveness analyses are increasingly used to aid decisions about resource allocation in healthcare; this practice is slow to translate into critical care. We sought to identify and summarize original cost-effectiveness studies presenting cost per quality-adjusted life year, incremental cost-effectiveness ratios, or cost per life-year ratios for treatments used in ICUs. DESIGN We conducted a systematic search of the English-language literature for cost-effectiveness analyses published from 1993 to 2018 in critical care. Study quality was assessed using the Drummond checklist. SETTING Critical care units. PATIENTS OR SUBJECTS Critical care patients. INTERVENTIONS Identified studies with cost-effectiveness analyses. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS We identified 97 studies published through 2018 with 156 cost-effectiveness ratios. Reported incremental cost-effectiveness ratios ranged from -$119,635 (hypothetical cohort of patients requiring either intermittent or continuous renal replacement therapy) to $876,539 (data from an acute renal failure study in which continuous renal replacement therapy was the most expensive therapy). Many studies reported favorable cost-effectiveness profiles (i.e., below $50,000 per life year or quality-adjusted life year). However, several therapies have since been proven harmful. Over 2 decades, relatively few cost-effectiveness studies in critical care have been published (average 4.6 studies per year). There has been a more recent trend toward using hypothetical cohorts and modeling scenarios without proven clinical data (2014-2018: 19/33 [58%]). CONCLUSIONS Despite critical care being a significant healthcare cost burden there remains a paucity of studies in the literature evaluating its cost effectiveness.
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Vlaar AP, Oczkowski S, de Bruin S, Wijnberge M, Antonelli M, Aubron C, Aries P, Duranteau J, Juffermans NP, Meier J, Murphy GJ, Abbasciano R, Muller M, Shah A, Perner A, Rygaard S, Walsh TS, Guyatt G, Dionne JC, Cecconi M. Transfusion strategies in non-bleeding critically ill adults: a clinical practice guideline from the European Society of Intensive Care Medicine. Intensive Care Med 2020; 46:673-696. [PMID: 31912207 PMCID: PMC7223433 DOI: 10.1007/s00134-019-05884-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To develop evidence-based clinical practice recommendations regarding transfusion practices in non-bleeding, critically ill adults. DESIGN A task force involving 13 international experts and three methodologists used the GRADE approach for guideline development. METHODS The task force identified four main topics: red blood cell transfusion thresholds, red blood cell transfusion avoidance strategies, platelet transfusion, and plasma transfusion. The panel developed structured guideline questions using population, intervention, comparison, and outcomes (PICO) format. RESULTS The task force generated 16 clinical practice recommendations (3 strong recommendations, 13 conditional recommendations), and identified five PICOs with insufficient evidence to make any recommendation. CONCLUSIONS This clinical practice guideline provides evidence-based recommendations and identifies areas where further research is needed regarding transfusion practices and transfusion avoidance in non-bleeding, critically ill adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander P Vlaar
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, University of Amsterdam, Room, C3-430, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Simon Oczkowski
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
- Guidelines in Intensive Care, Development and Evaluation (GUIDE) Group, Hamilton, Canada
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Sanne de Bruin
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marije Wijnberge
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Amsterdam UMC, Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Massimo Antonelli
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A.Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Istituto di Anaesthesiology e Rianimazione, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Cecile Aubron
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, Centre Hospitalier Régional et Universitaire de Brest, Université de Bretagne Occidentale, Site La Cavale Blanche, Brest, France
| | - Philippe Aries
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, Centre Hospitalier Régional et Universitaire de Brest, Université de Bretagne Occidentale, Site La Cavale Blanche, Brest, France
| | - Jacques Duranteau
- Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris Sud (HUPS), Orsay, France
| | - Nicole P Juffermans
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jens Meier
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Kepler University, Linz, Austria
| | - Gavin J Murphy
- Cardiovascular, Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, NIHR Leicester Biomedical Research Centre, College of Life Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, LE3 9QP, UK
| | - Riccardo Abbasciano
- Cardiovascular, Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, NIHR Leicester Biomedical Research Centre, College of Life Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, LE3 9QP, UK
| | - Marcella Muller
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Akshay Shah
- Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Adult Intensive Care Unit, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Anders Perner
- Department of Intensive Care, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sofie Rygaard
- Department of Intensive Care, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Timothy S Walsh
- Anaesthetics, Critical Care, and Pain Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland
| | - Gordon Guyatt
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
- Guidelines in Intensive Care, Development and Evaluation (GUIDE) Group, Hamilton, Canada
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - J C Dionne
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
- Guidelines in Intensive Care, Development and Evaluation (GUIDE) Group, Hamilton, Canada
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Maurizio Cecconi
- Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine, Humanitas Clinical and Research Centre-IRCCS, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
- Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy
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5
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Anemia and iron-restricted erythropoiesis in traumatic critical illness. J Trauma Acute Care Surg 2016; 80:538-45. [PMID: 26670117 DOI: 10.1097/ta.0000000000000939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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6
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Evaluation of a biosimilar recombinant alpha epoetin in the management of anemia in hemodialysis patients. Saudi Pharm J 2015; 23:544-8. [PMID: 26594121 PMCID: PMC4605909 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsps.2015.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2015] [Accepted: 02/20/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The efficacy of human recombinant erythropoietins (rHuEPOs) in the treatment of anemia with different etiologies is proven. Development of biosimilar rHuEPO products with lower cost and wider availability is important for the care of anemic patients. Objective: The aim of the present study was to determine the bioequivalence and safety of a biosimilar rHuEPO (Pastopoitin®) and compare it with the innovator product Eprex®, as a standard rHuEPO. Methods: One hundred and seven anemic patients on stable hemodialysis were recruited to this randomized double-blind comparative trial and assigned to either subcutaneous Pastopoitin (n = 50) or Eprex (n = 57). Each study group received rHuEPO at a dose of 80–120 IU/kg/week in 2–3 divided doses for a period of 3 months. Hematologic parameters including Hemoglobin, hematocrit, RBC, EBC, platelet, MCV, MCH and MCHC were checked every 2 weeks. Blood iron, ferritin, TIBC, creatinine, BUN and electrolytes (Na, K, Ca and P) were evaluated monthly over the 3 months. Results: A significant increase in hemoglobin, hematocrit and RBC was observed by the end of study in both Pastopoitin and Eprex groups (p < 0.001). However, these factors were not significantly different between the groups, neither at baseline nor at the end of study (p > 0.05). Likewise, the groups were comparable regarding MCV, MCH, MCHC, iron, ferritin, TIBC, creatinine, BUN and electrolytes at baseline as well as at the end of trial. Adverse events were not serious and occurred with the same frequency in the study groups. Conclusion: Pastopoitin showed comparable efficacy and safety profile with Eprex in anemic patients on hemodialysis. Hence, Pastopoitin may be considered as a rHuEPO with a lower cost and wider availability compared with the innovator product Eprex.
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7
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent randomized control trials (RCTs) suggest that epoetin alfa reduces mortality in critically ill trauma patients; however, epoetin alfa is also costly and associated with adverse events. This study evaluates the cost-effectiveness of epoetin alfa in surgical trauma patients in an intensive care unit setting. METHODS We constructed a decision analytic model to compare adjunctive use of epoetin alfa with standard care in trauma patients from the perspective of a Canadian payer. Baseline risks of events, relative efficacy, and resource use were obtained from RCTs and observational studies. One-way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were conducted and longer time horizons explored through Markov models. RESULTS Epoetin alfa was associated with a cost per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained of $89,958 compared with standard care at 1 year. One-way sensitivity analyses indicated that results were sensitive to plausible ranges of mortality risk, risk of thrombosis, relative risk of mortality, relative risk of thrombosis, and quality of life estimates. Cost-effectiveness acceptability curves generated from probabilistic sensitivity analysis indicated that the probability that epoetin alfa would be considered attractive ranged from 0% to 85% over a willingness-to-pay range of $25,000 to $120,000/QALY. Consideration of lifetime time horizons reduced the cost per QALY gained to $7,203, but results were sensitive to the effect of epoetin alfa on mortality. CONCLUSION Although the cost per QALY gained with epoetin alfa use may fall into an acceptable range, there is significant uncertainty about its true cost-effectiveness. If data regarding long-term efficacy and safety are confirmed in future trials, epoetin alfa could potentially be cost-effective in this population. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Economic analysis, level I.
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8
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Harrow BS, Eaton CB, Roberts MB, Assaf AR, Luo X, Chen Z. Health utilities associated with hemoglobin levels and blood loss in postmenopausal women: the Women's Health Initiative. VALUE IN HEALTH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR PHARMACOECONOMICS AND OUTCOMES RESEARCH 2011; 14:555-563. [PMID: 21669380 DOI: 10.1016/j.jval.2010.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2010] [Revised: 10/31/2010] [Accepted: 11/03/2010] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The purpose of our study was to use health-related quality of life data from the Women's Health Initiative to calculate health-related utility weights and examine differences in these health utility weights across different hemoglobin (Hgb) levels. These utility weights could then be used in future cost-effectiveness studies. METHODS Health utility weights were measured by the Short Form-6D (SF-6D), a health utility index derived from the Short Form Medical Outcomes questionnaire. Adjusted least square means were calculated for each level of Hgb at baseline and in longitudinal regression analysis the relationship between change in Hgb and change in the SF-6D was examined. Both baseline and longitudinal analyses were performed for all postmenopausal women and separately for those with self-reported heart failure, cancer, and osteoarthritis. RESULTS Women with Hgb in the anemic range had lower health utility weights than those with higher Hgb levels. Longitudinally, a loss of of 2 g/dl Hgb or more was associated with a statistically significant and clinically meaningfully decline in SF-6D in all participants and also in the group of participants with cancer and osteoarthritis, but not in those with heart failure. CONCLUSIONS Lower levels of Hgb and a loss of Hgb are associated with a statistically significant and clinically meaningful decrement in health utility in all postmenopausal women we studied and also in those with chronic conditions.
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Abstract
Anemia of critical illness, a commonly encountered clinical situation, is hematologically similar to that of chronic anemia, except that the onset is generally sudden. The etiology is usually multifactorial, occurring as a consequence of direct inhibitory effects of inflammatory cytokines, erythropoietin deficiency, blunted erythropoietic response, blood loss, nutritional deficiencies, and renal insufficiency. Although anemia is not well tolerated by critically ill patients, aggressive treatment of anemia can be just as detrimental as no treatment. Different types of anemia may coexist in a patient in the intensive care unit, making diagnosis and differentiation among these anemias complex, therefore requiring good diagnostic skills. Although several therapeutic options are available to treat anemia, critically ill patients often receive a transfusion, and yet, most recent studies indicate that blood transfusions in critically ill patients are associated with worse outcomes, including higher morbidity and mortality. These studies have generated interest in the administration of exogenous erythropoietin and iron therapy. Unfortunately, the accurate determination of iron status can be a rather difficult task, an undertaking that is made even more difficult by the presence of comorbid conditions that can affect the commonly used parameters for guiding iron therapy. The use of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents is rapidly gaining acceptance, although they also present potential problems of their own.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kwame Asare
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, St. Thomas Hospital, Nashville, Tennessee 37202, USA
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10
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Fonseca PJ, Esteban E, de Vicente P, Luque M, Llorente B, Capelán M, Berros JP, Crespo G, Lacave ÁJ. Impact of erythropoietin on the reduction of blood transfusions and on survival of lung cancer patients receiving first-line chemotherapy. Clin Transl Oncol 2008; 10:426-32. [DOI: 10.1007/s12094-008-0226-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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11
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Shermock KM, Horn E, Rice TL. Erythropoietic agents for anemia of critical illness. Am J Health Syst Pharm 2008; 65:540-6. [DOI: 10.2146/ajhp070225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ed Horn
- Transplant, Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Ted L. Rice
- School of Pharmacy, University of Pittsburgh, and Clinical Pharmacy Specialist, Critical Care, UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside, Pittsburgh
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12
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Muñoz M, Leal-Noval SR, García-Erce JA, Naveira E. [Prevalence and treatment of anemia in critically ill patients]. Med Intensiva 2008; 31:388-98. [PMID: 17942062 DOI: 10.1016/s0210-5691(07)74843-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Anemia is a common condition among medical and surgical patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) and generally has a multifactorial origin. In order to avoid the deleterious effects of anemia, 40% of ICU patients receive allogenic blood transfusion (ABT). This figure increases up to 70% if the ICU stay is longer than 7 days. However, ABT is associated with a dose-dependent increase in morbidity and mortality. In contrast, the administration of exogenous erythropoietin plus iron supplements, especially iv iron, improves anemia and reduces ABT requirements, although it does not reduce mortality. To ascertain whether treatment of anemia in the critically ill with exogenous erythropoietin and iron might improve outcomes and to optimize drug administration schedules and dosage, further studies with sufficient statistical power and adequate follow-up are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Muñoz
- Medicina Transfusional, Facultad de Medicina, Málaga, and Servicio de Cuidados Intensivos y Urgencias, Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío, Sevilla, Spain.
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13
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McKoy JM, Tigue CC, Bennett CL. Does reimbursement affect physicians' decision making? Examples from the use of recombinant erythropoietin. Cancer Treat Res 2008; 140:235-251. [PMID: 18283779 DOI: 10.1007/978-0-387-73639-6_14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- June M McKoy
- Division of Geriatrics, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
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14
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Duby JJ, Erstad BL, Abarca J, Camamo JM, Huckleberry Y, Bramblett SN. Impact of delayed initiation of erythropoietin in critically ill patients. BMC HEMATOLOGY 2007; 7:1. [PMID: 17916251 PMCID: PMC2077862 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2326-7-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2007] [Accepted: 10/04/2007] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Background The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEPO) use for anemia of critical illness at a practice site where delayed initiation is common. Methods Retrospective medical record review involving patients treated with rHuEPO for anemia of critical illness. Those patients given rHuEPO or diagnosed with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) prior to ICU admission were excluded. The primary endpoints were rHuEPO use and RBC transfusion patterns. Results Complete data were collected for consecutive admissions of 126 patients. Average age (SD) and APACHE II score were 56.5 (18.6) years and 25 (7.8), respectively. The median ICU (IQR) and hospital length of stay (LOS) were 24 (11.25, 39) and 29 (17, 44.75) days, respectively. Treatment with rHuEPO was started an average of 12.5 +/- 10.5 days after ICU admission and given for 3.8 +/- 3.8 doses. Eighty percent of patients were transfused with an average total of 5.42 +/- 5.08 units received. RBC exposure inversely correlated with a lower mean hemoglobin response to rHuEPO. ICU LOS (p < 0.0001), hemoglobin at 24 hours (p = 0.055), transfusion within 48 hours of admit (p < 0.0001), and postoperative status (p = 0.019) were the best predictors of transfusion requirements (r2 = 0.37). Conclusion Delayed initiation of rHuEPO for anemia of critical illness resulted in comparable hemoglobin and transfusion benefits. Future studies are needed to establish clinical benefit and role in therapy. RBC exposure may blunt the erythropoietic effects of rHuEPO, potentially frustrating benefits to those of greatest apparent need.
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15
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Kruse MW, Lee JJ, Lee JL. Questionable conclusions about epoetin alfa. Am J Health Syst Pharm 2007; 64:1789-90; author reply 1790-1. [PMID: 17724355 DOI: 10.2146/ajhp070156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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Shander A, Hofmann A, Gombotz H, Theusinger OM, Spahn DR. Estimating the cost of blood: past, present, and future directions. Best Pract Res Clin Anaesthesiol 2007; 21:271-89. [PMID: 17650777 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpa.2007.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 144] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Understanding the costs associated with blood products requires sophisticated knowledge about transfusion medicine and is attracting the attention of clinical and administrative healthcare sectors worldwide. To improve outcomes, blood usage must be optimized and expenditures controlled so that resources may be channeled toward other diagnostic, therapeutic, and technological initiatives. Estimating blood costs, however, is a complex undertaking, surpassing simple supply versus demand economics. Shrinking donor availability and application of a precautionary principle to minimize transfusion risks are factors that continue to drive the cost of blood products upward. Recognizing that historical accounting attempts to determine blood costs have varied in scope, perspective, and methodology, new approaches have been initiated to identify all potential cost elements related to blood and blood product administration. Activities are also under way to tie these elements together in a comprehensive and practical model that will be applicable to all single-donor blood products without regard to practice type (e.g., academic, private, multi- or single-center clinic). These initiatives, their rationale, importance, and future directions are described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aryeh Shander
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, New Jersey Institute for the Advancement of Bloodless Medicine and Surgery Englewood Hospital and Medical Center, 350 Engle Street, Englewood, NJ 07631, USA.
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17
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Reeder CE. Anemia in cancer and critical care patients: pharmacoeconomic considerations. Am J Health Syst Pharm 2007; 64:S22-7; quiz S28-30. [PMID: 17244883 DOI: 10.2146/ajhp060603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The elements and limitations of pharmacoeconomic models, types of analytic methods used in pharmacoeconomic evaluations, outcomes used in studies of anemia treatments, and comparative efficacy and cost-effectiveness of the two available erythropoietic therapies in the treatment of anemia in cancer and critical care patients are discussed. SUMMARY Clinical, humanistic, and economic outcomes should be taken into consideration in pharmacoeconomic models. The validity of such models may be compromised by a lack of outcome data, unreasonable assumptions, the heterogeneity of the patient population, patient selection bias in comparative studies, and inconsistent use of instruments to measure outcomes. The degree of anemia in patients with cancer correlates with health-related quality of life (QOL). Erythropoietic therapy increases hemoglobin concentrations and QOL, reduces the need for blood transfusions, and is cost-effective for treating anemia in cancer and critical care patients. Epoetin alfa may provide a more rapid hemoglobin response and improvement in QOL at a lower cost than darbepoetin alfa. Front loading with weekly doses of either erythropoietic agent followed by a three-week-long dosing interval for maintenance treatment may be used to quickly correct anemia, improve convenience, and reduce costs. CONCLUSION Erythropoietic therapy for the treatment of anemia in cancer and critical care patients is cost-effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Eugene Reeder
- College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 28208, USA.
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Devine EB, Cross JT, Kowdley KV, Sullivan SD. The cost of treating ribavirin-induced anemia in hepatitis C: the impact of using recombinant human erythropoietin. Curr Med Res Opin 2007; 23:1463-72. [PMID: 17559739 DOI: 10.1185/030079907x188189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Ribavirin-induced anemia (RIA) is a common adverse effect of chronic hepatitis C treatment. Studies have shown that the use of epoetin decreases the need for ribavirin dose reduction or discontinuation. The primary objective was to calculate the incremental cost of treating hepatitis C in those without versus with RIA, using either the strategy of ribavirin dose reduction/discontinuation or epoetin. The secondary objective was to calculate the incremental cost of using epoetin versus no epoetin to treat RIA, per ribavirin dose reduction/discontinuation averted. METHODS Estimates from the literature and decision-analytic techniques were used to model treatment patterns and estimate the cost of managing RIA in genotype 1, 2, and 3 subjects. Sensitivity analyses were used to address uncertainty. RESULTS Clinically significant RIA, a reduction in hemoglobin of > or = 2 g/dL (1.2 mmol/L), developed in 72% of patients in observational studies. The incremental cost of treating chronic hepatitis C decreased when employing the strategy of ribavirindose reduction/discontinuation to treat RIA, and increased by 5.7% (genotype 1) or 34.4% (genotype 2 or 3), when using epoetin. Using one-way sensitivity analyses, the cost of using epoetin per ribavirin dose reduction/discontinuation averted was $39,579-$52,023. Generalizability may be limited to settings in which a similar proportion of patients develop RIA. CONCLUSIONS The proportional cost of treating hepatitis C when using epoetin to treat RIA is significant in genotype 2 or 3 patients. The cost of using epoetin per ribavirin dose reduction/discontinuation averted is substantial in patients with genotypes 1, 2, or 3; and varies with the probability of response to epoetin. These findings suggest that additional studies are warranted that will determine the effect of epoetin on treatment outcomes and its role as supportive therapy in patients with RIA.
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Affiliation(s)
- E B Devine
- University of Washington Department of Pharmacy, Seattle, WA 98195-7630, USA.
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Dorman T, Pauldine R. Economic stress and misaligned incentives in critical care medicine in the United States. Crit Care Med 2007; 35:S36-43. [PMID: 17242605 DOI: 10.1097/01.ccm.0000252911.62777.1e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This review will provide an overview of issues with economic ramifications intrinsic to the management of intensive care resources and identify some of the external pressures that ultimately influence the provision of intensive care services. DESIGN A review of the current literature was performed. RESULTS Economic stress is a reality of the management of intensive care resources. The nature of critical care medicine as a technologically heavy, labor intensive, high-cost, limited resource, combined with a projected increase in demand in an era of cost containment, presents an array of challenges. CONCLUSIONS It is in the best interest of the care of our patients that critical care providers increase awareness of the many factors influencing our practice economically. It is through such understanding that challenges can be met, solutions can be found, and the quality of intensive care can be improved in a financially sustainable environment.
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20
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Cornes P, Coiffier B, Zambrowski JJ. Erythropoietic therapy for the treatment of anemia in patients with cancer: a valuable clinical and economic option. Curr Med Res Opin 2007; 23:357-68. [PMID: 17288690 DOI: 10.1185/030079906x167282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Healthcare organizations must evaluate the cost effectiveness of the alternative therapies that are available to treat anemia and improve quality of life (QoL) of patients with cancer, that is, erythropoietic protein therapy and blood transfusion. METHODS Pharmacoeconomic studies that evaluated the cost of not treating anemia or treating with transfusion or erythropoietic protein therapy were reviewed and compared. Studies of individual erythropoietic proteins (epoetin alfa, epoetin beta or darbepoetin alfa) were also assessed. As no prospective trials have compared the erythropoietic proteins, retrospective studies and the results of separate trials were analyzed. The database searched for this review was PubMed (open date to August 2006). Recent conference abstracts were also searched (2003-July 2006). RESULTS There is a high cost associated with anemia in cancer patients. Treatment of anemia is likely to lead to increased hemoglobin (Hb) levels and improved QoL as principal outcomes. Therefore, in assessing erythropoietic protein versus transfusion, it is more appropriate to use Hb or QoL as endpoint rather than quality adjusted life year. Studies with the former approach showed that erythropoietic protein therapy is more cost effective than transfusion. Also, its cost effectiveness should be improved with the use of evidence-based guidelines for patient selection and more tailored utilization. Increasing evidence suggests there might be differences among the erythropoietic proteins in terms of response rate, speed of response, and need for dose escalation. CONCLUSION Significant costs are incurred when anemia in cancer is not treated. Erythropoietic protein therapy is more cost effective than blood transfusion for the treatment of cancer-related anemia. Transfusion should be reserved for patients with poor responses to erythropoietic protein or for the emergency setting, when rapid improvement in Hb is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Cornes
- Bristol Haematology & Oncology Centre, Horfield Road, Bristol, UK.
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Talmor D, Shapiro N, Greenberg D, Stone PW, Neumann PJ. When is critical care medicine cost-effective? A systematic review of the cost-effectiveness literature. Crit Care Med 2006; 34:2738-47. [PMID: 16957636 DOI: 10.1097/01.ccm.0000241159.18620.ab] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Receiving care in an intensive care unit can greatly influence patients' survival and quality of life. Such treatments can, however, be extremely resource intensive. Therefore, it is increasingly important to understand the costs and consequences associated with interventions aimed at reducing mortality and morbidity of critically ill patients. Cost-effectiveness analyses (CEAs) have become increasingly common to aid decisions about the allocation of scarce healthcare resources. OBJECTIVES To identify published original CEAs presenting cost/quality-adjusted life year or cost/life-year ratios for treatments used in intensive care units, to summarize the results in an accessible format, and to identify areas in critical care medicine that merit further economic evaluation. METHODS We conducted a systematic search of the English-language literature for original CEAs of critical care interventions published from 1993 through 2003. We collected data on the target population, therapy or program, study results, analytic methods employed, and the cost-effectiveness ratios presented. RESULTS We identified 19 CEAs published through 2003 with 48 cost-effectiveness ratios pertaining to treatment of severe sepsis, acute respiratory failure, and general critical care interventions. These ratios ranged from cost saving to 958,423 US dollars/quality-adjusted life year and from 1,150 to 575,054 US dollars/life year gained. Many studies reported favorable cost-effectiveness profiles (i.e., below 50,000 US dollars/life year or quality-adjusted life year). CONCLUSIONS Specific interventions such as activated protein C for patients with severe sepsis have been shown to provide good value for money. However, overall there is a paucity of CEA literature on the management of the critically ill, and further high-quality CEA is needed. In particular, research should focus on costly interventions such as 24-hr intensivist availability, early goal-directed therapy, and renal replacement therapy. Recent guidelines for the conduct of CEAs in critical care may increase the number and improve the quality of future CEAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Talmor
- Department of Anesthesia, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Cox HL, Laupland KB, Manns BJ. Economic evaluation in critical care medicine. J Crit Care 2006; 21:117-24. [PMID: 16769454 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcrc.2006.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2005] [Revised: 01/18/2006] [Accepted: 02/07/2006] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Scarce resources are a reality in all health care systems. There is a constant challenge to maximize health benefits within the resources available. This is particularly relevant when caring for critically ill patients, given the resource-intensive technologies and medicines used and the highly specialized professionals required. Moreover, given the high acuity of illness, decision makers and health care providers in critical care units must constantly assess the value derived from therapies and resources used. Economic evaluation is the comparative analysis of alternative health care interventions in their relative costs (resource use) and effectiveness (health effects). Economic evaluations have been increasingly published in critical care journals and read by clinicians. This article illustrates how the basic principles of health economics can be applied to health care decision making through the use of economic evaluation. We demonstrate how economic evaluation can link medical outcomes, quality of life, and costs in a common index, even for therapies for different medical conditions and with different health outcomes. This article highlights the need for randomized clinical trials and economic evaluations of therapies in critical care medicine for which the effect of the therapy on health outcomes and/or costs are unknown.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather L Cox
- Department of Surgery, University of Calgary and Calgary Health Region, Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2L 2K8
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Kanavos P, Yfantopoulos J, Vandoros C, Politis C. The economics of blood: Gift of life or a commodity? Int J Technol Assess Health Care 2006; 22:338-43. [PMID: 16984062 DOI: 10.1017/s0266462306051233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Objectives:To calculate the costs of blood collection, testing, storage, and transfusion in Greece.Methods:Costing information was collected from two large public hospitals, in Athens and Crete, that also act as blood banks. Given that private health care accounts for 40 percent of total health spending, the same costs were also considered in a private setting by collecting key reagent cost data from a leading private hospital in Athens. Mainly direct costs were considered (advertising campaigns, personnel, storage and maintenance, reagent costs, transportation costs from blood bank to end-use hospitals, and cross-matching and transfusion costs in receiving hospitals) and some indirect costs (opportunity cost of blood donorship).Results:Captive donorship accounts for over 50 percent of the national blood supply. A unit of blood transfused would cost between €294.83 and €339.83 in public hospitals and could reach €413.93 in a private facility. This figure may be an underestimate, as it excludes opportunity costs of blood transfusion for patients and the healthcare system.Conclusions:Blood has a significant cost to the health system. Policy makers and practitioners should encourage its rational use, build on current policies to further improve collection and distribution, encourage further volunteer donorship in Greece, and also consider alternatives to blood where the possibility exists.
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Affiliation(s)
- T S Walsh
- Anaesthetics, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, New Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, Little France Crescent Edinburgh, Scotland EH16 2SA.
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Haas CE, Forrest A. Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic research in the intensive care unit: an unmet need. Crit Care Med 2006; 34:1831-3. [PMID: 16714989 DOI: 10.1097/01.ccm.0000219372.32810.20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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