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Stadhouders N, van Vliet E, Brabers AEM, van Dijk W, Onstwedder S. Should Commercial Diagnostic Testing Be Stimulated or Discouraged? Analyzing Willingness-to-Pay and Market Externalities of Three Commercial Diagnostic Tests in The Netherlands. APPLIED HEALTH ECONOMICS AND HEALTH POLICY 2024; 22:193-207. [PMID: 38099980 PMCID: PMC10864515 DOI: 10.1007/s40258-023-00846-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Consumers may purchase commercial diagnostic tests (CDT) without prior doctor consultation. This paper analyzes three CDT markets-commercial cholesterol tests (CCT), direct-to-consumer genetic health tests (DGT) and total body scans (TBS)-in the context of the universal, collectively financed health care system of the Netherlands. METHODS An online willingness-to-pay (WTP) questionnaire was sent to a representative sample of 1500 Dutch consumers. Using contingent valuation (CV) methodology, an array of bids for three self-tests were presented to the respondents. The results were extrapolated to the Dutch population and compared to current prices and follow-up medical utilization, allowing analysis from a societal perspective. RESULTS Overall, 880 of 1500 respondents completed the questionnaire (response rate 59%). Of the respondents, 26-44% were willing to pay a positive amount for the CDT. Willingness-to-pay was correlated to age and household income, but not to health status or prior experience with these tests. At mean current prices of €29 for CCT, €229 for DGT and €1,650 for TBS, 3.3%, 2.5%, and 1.1%, were willing to purchase a CCT, DGT, and TBS, respectively. All three CDT resulted in net costs to the health system, estimated at €5, €16, and €44 per test, respectively. Reducing volumes by 90,000 CCTs (19%), 19,000 DGTs (5%) and 4,000 TBSs (2.5%) in 2019 would optimize welfare. CONCLUSION Most respondents were unwilling to consume CDT at any price or only if the CDT were provided for free. However, for a small group of consumers, societal costs exceed private benefits. Therefore, CDT regulation could provide small welfare gains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niek Stadhouders
- Scientific Institute for Quality of Healthcare, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - Ella van Vliet
- Centre for Health Protection, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Anne E M Brabers
- Nivel, Netherlands Institute for Health Services Research, PO box 1568, 3500 BN, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Wieteke van Dijk
- Scientific Institute for Quality of Healthcare, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Suzanne Onstwedder
- Centre for Health Protection, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, The Netherlands
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2
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Rossi SH, Harrison H, Usher-Smith JA, Stewart GD. Risk-stratified screening for the early detection of kidney cancer. Surgeon 2024; 22:e69-e78. [PMID: 37993323 DOI: 10.1016/j.surge.2023.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Earlier detection and screening for kidney cancer has been identified as a key research priority, however the low prevalence of the disease in unselected populations limits the cost-effectiveness of screening. Risk-stratified screening for kidney cancer may improve early detection by targeting high-risk individuals whilst limiting harms in low-risk individuals, potentially increasing the cost-effectiveness of screening. A number of models have been identified which estimate kidney cancer risk based on both phenotypic and genetic data, and while several of the former have been shown to identify individuals at high-risk of developing kidney cancer with reasonable accuracy, current evidence does not support including a genetic component. Combined screening for lung cancer and kidney cancer has been proposed, as the two malignancies share some common risk factors. A modelling study estimated that using lung cancer risk models (currently used for risk-stratified lung cancer screening) could capture 25% of patients with kidney cancer, which is only slightly lower than using the best performing kidney cancer-specific risk models based on phenotypic data (27%-33%). Additionally, risk-stratified screening for kidney cancer has been shown to be acceptable to the public. The following review summarises existing evidence regarding risk-stratified screening for kidney cancer, highlighting the risks and benefits, as well as exploring the management of potential harms and further research needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina H Rossi
- Department of Surgery, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
| | - Hannah Harrison
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Juliet A Usher-Smith
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Grant D Stewart
- Department of Surgery, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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3
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Ramponi F, Twea P, Chilima B, Nkhoma D, Kazanga Chiumia I, Manthalu G, Mfutso-Bengo J, Revill P, Drummond M, Sculpher M. Assessing the potential of HTA to inform resource allocation decisions in low-income settings: The case of Malawi. Front Public Health 2022; 10:1010702. [PMID: 36388387 PMCID: PMC9650047 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1010702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Health technology assessment (HTA) offers a set of analytical tools to support health systems' decisions about resource allocation. Although there is increasing interest in these tools across the world, including in some middle-income countries, they remain rarely used in low-income countries (LICs). In general, the focus of HTA is narrow, mostly limited to assessments of efficacy and cost-effectiveness. However, the principles of HTA can be used to support a broader series of decisions regarding new health technologies. We examine the potential for this broad use of HTA in LICs, with a focus on Malawi. We develop a framework to classify the main decisions on health technologies within health systems. The framework covers decisions on identifying and prioritizing technologies for detailed assessment, deciding whether to adopt an intervention, assessing alternative investments for implementation and scale-up, and undertaking further research activities. We consider the relevance of the framework to policymakers in Malawi and we use two health technologies as examples to investigate the main barriers and enablers to the use of HTA methods. Although the scarcity of local data, expertise, and other resources could risk limiting the operationalisation of HTA in LICs, we argue that even in highly resource constrained health systems, such as in Malawi, the use of HTA to support a broad range of decisions is feasible and desirable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Ramponi
- Centre for Health Economics, University of York, Heslington, United Kingdom
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pakwanja Twea
- Department of Planning and Policy Development, Ministry of Health Malawi, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Benson Chilima
- Public Health Institute, Ministry of Health Malawi, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Dominic Nkhoma
- Health Economics and Policy Unit (HEPU), College of Medicine, University of Malawi, Zomba, Malawi
| | - Isabel Kazanga Chiumia
- Health Economics and Policy Unit (HEPU), College of Medicine, University of Malawi, Zomba, Malawi
| | - Gerald Manthalu
- Department of Planning and Policy Development, Ministry of Health Malawi, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Joseph Mfutso-Bengo
- Health Economics and Policy Unit (HEPU), College of Medicine, University of Malawi, Zomba, Malawi
| | - Paul Revill
- Centre for Health Economics, University of York, Heslington, United Kingdom
| | - Michael Drummond
- Centre for Health Economics, University of York, Heslington, United Kingdom
| | - Mark Sculpher
- Centre for Health Economics, University of York, Heslington, United Kingdom
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SERS Liquid Biopsy Profiling of Serum for the Diagnosis of Kidney Cancer. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10020233. [PMID: 35203443 PMCID: PMC8869590 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10020233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Renal cancer (RC) represents 3% of all cancers, with a 2% annual increase in incidence worldwide, opening the discussion about the need for screening. However, no established screening tool currently exists for RC. To tackle this issue, we assessed surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) profiling of serum as a liquid biopsy strategy to detect renal cell carcinoma (RCC), the most prevalent histologic subtype of RC. Thus, serum samples were collected from 23 patients with RCC and 27 controls (CTRL) presenting with a benign urological pathology such as lithiasis or benign prostatic hypertrophy. SERS profiling of deproteinized serum yielded SERS band spectra attributed mainly to purine metabolites, which exhibited higher intensities in the RCC group, and Raman bands of carotenoids, which exhibited lower intensities in the RCC group. Principal component analysis (PCA) of the SERS spectra showed a tendency for the unsupervised clustering of the two groups. Next, three machine learning algorithms (random forest, kNN, naïve Bayes) were implemented as supervised classification algorithms for achieving discrimination between the RCC and CTRL groups, yielding an AUC of 0.78 for random forest, 0.78 for kNN, and 0.76 for naïve Bayes (average AUC 0.77 ± 0.01). The present study highlights the potential of SERS liquid biopsy as a diagnostic and screening strategy for RCC. Further studies involving large cohorts and other urologic malignancies as controls are needed to validate the proposed SERS approach.
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Dong YC, Bouché M, Uman S, Burdick JA, Cormode DP. Detecting and Monitoring Hydrogels with Medical Imaging. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2021; 7:4027-4047. [PMID: 33979137 PMCID: PMC8440385 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.0c01547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Hydrogels, water-swollen polymer networks, are being applied to numerous biomedical applications, such as drug delivery and tissue engineering, due to their potential tunable rheologic properties, injectability into tissues, and encapsulation and release of therapeutics. Despite their promise, it is challenging to assess their properties in vivo and crucial information such as hydrogel retention at the site of administration and in situ degradation kinetics are often lacking. To address this, technologies to evaluate and track hydrogels in vivo with various imaging techniques have been developed in recent years, including hydrogels functionalized with contrast generating material that can be imaged with methods such as X-ray computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), optical imaging, and nuclear imaging systems. In this review, we will discuss emerging approaches to label hydrogels for imaging, review the advantages and limitations of these imaging techniques, and highlight examples where such techniques have been implemented in biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxi C Dong
- Department of Radiology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Mathilde Bouché
- Université de Lorraine, CNRS, L2CM UMR 7053, F-54000 Nancy, France
| | - Selen Uman
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Jason A Burdick
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - David P Cormode
- Department of Radiology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
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Novellis P, Cominesi SR, Rossetti F, Mondoni M, Gregorc V, Veronesi G. Lung cancer screening: who pays? Who receives? The European perspectives. Transl Lung Cancer Res 2021; 10:2395-2406. [PMID: 34164287 PMCID: PMC8182705 DOI: 10.21037/tlcr-20-677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide, and its early detection is critical to achieving a curative treatment and to reducing mortality. Low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) is a highly sensitive technique for detecting noninvasive small lung tumors in high-risk populations. We here analyze the current status of lung cancer screening (LCS) from a European point of view. With economic burden of health care in most European countries resting on the state, it is important to reduce costs of screening and improve its effectiveness. Current cost-effectiveness analyses on LCS have indicated a favorable economic profile. The most recently published analysis reported an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of €3,297 per 1 life-year gained adjusted for the quality of life (QALY) and €2,944 per life-year gained, demonstrating a 90% probability of ICER being below €15,000 and a 98.1% probability of being below €25,000. Different risk models have been used to identify the target population; among these, the PLCOM2012 in particular allows for the selection of the population to be screened with high sensitivity. Risk models should also be employed to define screening intervals, which can reduce the general number of LDCT scans after the baseline round. Future perspectives of screening in a European scenario are related to the will of the policy makers to implement policy on a large scale and to improve the effectiveness of a broad screening of smoking-related disease, including cardiovascular prevention, by measuring coronary calcium score on LDCT. The employment of artificial intelligence (AI) in imaging interpretation, the use of liquid biopsies for the characterization of CT-detected undetermined nodules, and less invasive, personalized surgical treatments, will improve the effectiveness of LCS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierluigi Novellis
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Francesca Rossetti
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Michele Mondoni
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, Respiratory Unit, ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo, Milan, Italy
| | - Vanesa Gregorc
- Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Giulia Veronesi
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy.,Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
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Yamauchi FI, Paiva OA, Mussi TC, Francisco Neto MJ, Baroni RH. A comparative study of ultrasound and cross-sectional imaging for detection of small renal masses: anatomic factors and radiologist's experience. EINSTEIN-SAO PAULO 2020; 18:eAO5576. [PMID: 33206813 PMCID: PMC7647384 DOI: 10.31744/einstein_journal/2020ao5576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To evaluate anatomic factors and radiologist's experience in the detection of solid renal masses on ultrasonography. Methods: We searched for solid renal masses diagnosed on cross-sectional imaging from 2007 to 2017 that also had previous ultrasonography from the past 6 months. The following features were evaluated: nodule size, laterality, location and growth pattern, patient body mass index and radiologist's experience in ultrasound. In surgically resected cases, pathologic reports were evaluated. Unpaired t test and χ2 test were used to evaluate differences among subgroups, using R-statistics. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05. Results: The initial search of renal nodules on cross-sectional imaging resulted in 428 lesions and 266 lesions were excluded. Final cohort included 162 lesions and, of those, 108 (67%) were correctly detected on ultrasonography (Group 1) and 54 (33%) were missed (Group 2). Comparison of Groups 1 and 2 were as follows, respectively: body mass index (27.7 versus 27.1; p=0.496), size (2.58cm versus 1.74cm; p=0.003), laterality (54% versus 59% right sided; p=0.832), location (27% versus 22% upper pole; p=0.869), growth pattern (25% versus 28% endophytic; p=0.131) and radiologist's experience (p=0.300). From surgically resected cases, histology available for Group 1 was clear cell (n=11), papillary (n=15), chromophobe (n=2) renal cell carcinoma, oncocytoma (n=1), and, for Group 2, clear cell (n=7), papillary (n=5) renal cell carcinoma, oncocytoma (n=2), angiomyolipoma, chromophobe renal cell carcinoma, and interstitial pyelonephritis (n=1, each). Conclusion: Size was the only significant parameter related to renal nodule detection on ultrasound.
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Usher-Smith J, Simmons RK, Rossi SH, Stewart GD. Current evidence on screening for renal cancer. Nat Rev Urol 2020; 17:637-642. [PMID: 32860009 PMCID: PMC7610655 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-020-0363-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) incidence is increasing worldwide. A high proportion of individuals are asymptomatic at diagnosis, but RCC has a high mortality rate. These facts suggest that RCC meets some of the criteria for screening, and a new analysis shows that screening for RCC could potentially be cost-effective. Targeted screening of high-risk individuals is likely to be the most cost-effective strategy to maximize the benefits and reduce the harms of screening. However, the size of the benefit of earlier initiation of treatment and the overall cost-effectiveness of screening remains uncertain. The optimal screening modality and target population is also unclear, and uncertainties exist regarding the specification and implementation of a screening programme. Before moving to a fully powered trial of screening, future work should focus on the following: developing and validating accurate risk prediction models; developing non-invasive methods of early RCC detection; establishing the feasibility, public acceptability and potential uptake of screening; establishing the prevalence of RCC and stage distribution of RCC detected by screening; and evaluating the potential harms of screening, including the impact on quality of life, overdiagnosis and over-treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliet Usher-Smith
- The Primary Care Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Rebecca K Simmons
- Department of Public Health, Bartolins Allé 2, University of Aarhus, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Sabrina H Rossi
- Department of Surgery, University of Cambridge, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | - Grant D Stewart
- Department of Surgery, University of Cambridge, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK.
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Early Diagnosis of Pancreatic Cancer: The Key for Survival. Diagnostics (Basel) 2020; 10:diagnostics10110869. [PMID: 33114412 PMCID: PMC7694042 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics10110869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2020] [Revised: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is one of the most aggressive forms of cancer. Negative prognosis is mainly due to the late diagnosis in advanced stages, when the disease is already therapeutically overcome. Studies in recent years have focused on identifying biomarkers that could play a role in early diagnosis, leading to the improvement of morbidity and mortality. Currently, the only biomarker widely used in the diagnosis of PC is carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA19.9), which has, however, more of a prognostic role in the follow-up of postoperative recurrence than a diagnostic role. Other biomarkers, recently identified as the methylation status of ADAMTS1 (A disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs 1) and BNC1 (zinc finger protein basonuclin-1) in cell-free deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), may play a role in the early detection of PC. This review focuses on the diagnosis of PC in its early stages.
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Azuma M, Nakada H, Kitatani K, Shinkawa N, Khant ZA, Ochiai H, Hirai T. Conditional unnecessity of head CT for whole-body CT of traffic accident victims: a pilot study. Emerg Radiol 2020; 28:273-278. [PMID: 32918636 DOI: 10.1007/s10140-020-01851-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate whether head CT should be included in whole-body CT in road traffic accident victims. METHODS A review of electronic medical records identified 124 patients (81 males, 43 females; age 4 to 92 years, mean 47.7 years) involved in a road traffic accident in a 12-month period. All had undergone whole-body CT and physical and neurologic examinations. We recorded their age, sex, Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), systolic blood pressure (SBP), the type of traffic accident, and the presence/absence of visible trauma above the clavicles (VTCs) and of acute traumatic brain injury (TBI) on CT. Statistical analyses were performed to evaluate predictors of acute TBI. RESULTS Of 124 patients, 34 (27%) manifested acute TBI on CT. Univariate analysis identified their age, GCS, SBP, VTCs, and the accident type as statistically significant factors for acute TBI (p < 0.05). Multivariate analysis demonstrated VTCs, GCS score < 15, and SBP ≤ 90 mmHg were significant independent predictors of acute TBI (p = 0.001, p = 0.001, and p = 0.004, respectively); the odds ratio was 16.07 for VTCs, 14.85 for GCS score < 15, and 13.78 for SBP ≤ 90 mmHg. No patients without both decrease in GCS score and VTCs manifested acute TBI. CONCLUSION Our pilot study showed that visible trauma above the clavicles and decrease in GCS score were highly associated with the presence of acute TBI in road traffic accident victims. In whole-body CT, a head CT may not be indicated in patients without these factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minako Azuma
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan.
| | - Hiroshi Nakada
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
| | - Keiji Kitatani
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
| | - Norihiro Shinkawa
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
| | - Zaw Aung Khant
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
| | - Hidenobu Ochiai
- Center for Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
| | - Toshinori Hirai
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
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Veronesi G, Navone N, Novellis P, Dieci E, Toschi L, Velutti L, Solinas M, Vanni E, Alloisio M, Ghislandi S. Favorable incremental cost-effectiveness ratio for lung cancer screening in Italy. Lung Cancer 2020; 143:73-79. [PMID: 32234647 DOI: 10.1016/j.lungcan.2020.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2019] [Revised: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Lung cancer detection by low-dose computed tomographic screening reduces mortality. However, it is essential to assess cost-effectiveness. We present a cost-effectiveness analysis of screening in Italians at high risk of lung cancer, from the point of view of the Italian tax-payer. MATERIALS AND METHODS We used a decision model to estimate the cost-effectiveness of annual screening for 5 years in smokers (≥30 pack-years) of 55-79 years. Patients diagnosed in the COSMOS study were the screening arm; patients diagnosed and treated for lung cancer in the Lombardy Region, Italy, constituted the usual care arm. Treatment costs were extracted from our hospital database. Lung cancer survival in screened patients was adjusted for 2-year lead-time bias. Life-years and quality-adjusted life-years were estimated by stage at diagnosis, from which incremental cost-effectiveness ratios per life-year and quality-adjusted life-year gained were estimated. RESULTS Base-case incremental cost-effectiveness ratios were 3297 and 2944 euro per quality-adjusted life-year and life-year gained, respectively. Deterministic sensitivity analysis indicated that these values were particularly sensitive to lung cancer prevalence, screening sensitivity and specificity, screening cost, and treatment costs for stage I and IV disease. From the probabilistic sensitivity analysis incremental cost-effectiveness ratios had a 98 % probability of being <25,000 euro (widely-accepted threshold) and a 55 % probability of being <5000 euro. CONCLUSIONS Low-dose computed tomographic screening is associated with an incremental cost of 2944 euro per life-year gained in high risk population, implying that screening can be introduced in Italy at contained cost, saving the lives of many lung cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Veronesi
- School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy; Division of Thoracic and General Surgery, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano (Milan), Italy.
| | - Niccolò Navone
- CERGAS and Department of Social and Political Sciences, Bocconi University, Milan, Italy
| | - Pierluigi Novellis
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Elisa Dieci
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Toschi
- Department of Oncology & Hematology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano (Milan), Italy
| | - Laura Velutti
- Department of Oncology & Hematology, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano (Milan), Italy
| | - Michela Solinas
- Thoracic Surgery Unit, New Hospital of Legnano, ASST Ovest (Milan), Italy
| | - Elena Vanni
- Business Operating Officer, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano (Milan), Italy; Department of Biomedical Science, Humanitas University, Rozzano (Milan), Italy
| | - Marco Alloisio
- Division of Thoracic and General Surgery, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Rozzano (Milan), Italy; Department of Biomedical Science, Humanitas University, Rozzano (Milan), Italy
| | - Simone Ghislandi
- CERGAS and Department of Social and Political Sciences, Bocconi University, Milan, Italy
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Whole Body CT Imaging in Deceased Donor Screening for Malignancies. Transplant Direct 2019; 5:e509. [PMID: 32095504 PMCID: PMC7004587 DOI: 10.1097/txd.0000000000000953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2019] [Accepted: 09/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background. In most western countries, the median donor age is increasing. The incidence of malignancies in older populations is increasing as well. To prevent donor-derived malignancies we evaluated radiologic donor screening in a retrospective donor cohort. Methods. This study analyzes the efficacy of a preoperative computed tomography (CT) scan on detecting malignancies. All deceased organ donors in the Netherlands between January 2013 and December 2017 were included. Donor reports were analyzed to identify malignancies detected before or during organ procurement. Findings between donor screening with or without CT-scan were compared. Results. Chest or abdominal CT-scans were performed in 17% and 18% of the 1644 reported donors respectively. Screening by chest CT-scan versus radiograph resulted in 1.5% and 0.0% detected thoracic malignancies respectively. During procurement no thoracic malignancies were found in patients screened by chest CT compared with 0.2% malignancies in the radiograph group. Screening by abdominal CT-scan resulted in 0.0% malignancies, compared with 0.2% in the abdominal ultrasound group. During procurement 1.0% and 1.3% malignancies were found in the abdominal CT-scan and ultrasound groups, respectively. Conclusions. Screening by CT-scan decreased the perioperative detection of tumors by 30%. A preoperative CT-scan may be helpful by providing additional information on (aberrant) anatomy to the procuring or transplanting surgeon. In conclusion, donor screening by CT-scan could decrease the risk of donor-derived malignancies and prevents unnecessary procurements per year in the Netherlands.
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Whole-body computed tomography: a new point of view in a hospital check-up unit? Our experience in 6516 patients. Radiol Med 2019; 124:1199-1211. [PMID: 31407223 DOI: 10.1007/s11547-019-01068-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2018] [Accepted: 08/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a growing awareness that prevention and early diagnosis may reduce the high mortality associated with cancer, cardiovascular and other diseases. The role of whole-body computed tomography (WB-CT) in self-referred and asymptomatic patients has been debated. AIM To determine frequency and spectrum of WB-CT findings in average-risk subjects derived from a Medical-Check-Up-Unit, to evaluate recommendations reported and distribution according to sex and age-groups. MATERIALS AND METHODS We retrospectively reviewed 6516 subjects who underwent WB-CT (June 2004/February 2015). All were > 40 years and referred by Medical-Check-Up-Unit of our hospital. The main findings were categorized and classified as normal or not. Its distribution according to sex and age-groups was evaluated using Chi-square test and linear-by-linear association test, respectively. Number of recommendations, type and interval of follow-up were recorded. Descriptive statistics were used. RESULTS WB-CT performed in 6516 patients (69% men, 31% women, mean age = 58.4 years) revealed chest (81.4%), abdominal (93.06%) and spine (65.39%) abnormalities. Only 1.60% had completely normal exploration. Abnormal WB-CT in men was significantly higher than women (98.64% vs. 97.87%; p = 0.021), with significant increase as age was higher (40-49 years: 95.65%; 50-59 years: 98.33%; 60-69 years: 99.47%; > 69 years: 99.89%) (p < 0.001). Although most findings were benign, we detected 1.47% primary tumors (96, mainly 35 kidneys and 15 lungs). 17.39% of patients received at least one recommendation predominantly in chest (78.19%) and follow-up imaging (69.89%). CONCLUSION The most common WB-CT findings in asymptomatic subjects are benign. However, this examination allows identifying an important number of relevant and precocious findings that significantly increase with age, involving changes in lifestyle and precocious treatment.
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Moutinho-Ribeiro P, Iglesias-Garcia J, Gaspar R, Macedo G. Early pancreatic cancer - The role of endoscopic ultrasound with or without tissue acquisition in diagnosis and staging. Dig Liver Dis 2019; 51:4-9. [PMID: 30337098 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2018.09.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2018] [Revised: 09/26/2018] [Accepted: 09/26/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is one of the deadliest cancers with a 5-year overall survival of less than 6%. Due to its insidious clinical course and unspecific symptoms, the diagnosis is usually late, with only 15-20% patients presenting with potentially curable disease. It is, therefore, extremely important to identify patients with PC at early stages of the disease when tumors may be amenable to surgical resection. For unresectable and borderline resectable PC it is consensual to perform a biopsy to have a cyto/histological confirmation of malignancy before treatment. However, for patients presenting with promptly resectable disease, the role of biopsy is more debatable. There are, in the literature, arguments both for and against the usefulness of a preoperative biopsy. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is an important technique assisting in the diagnosis and staging of PC. EUS-guided tissue acquisition is a well-established tool to demonstrate the malignant nature of a pancreatic lesion. This review focuses on the role of EUS in the diagnosis and staging of PC, and highlights the controversy related to the role of EUS-guided tissue acquisition in the preoperative assessment of patients presenting with promptly resectable tumors (early PC).
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Moutinho-Ribeiro
- Department of Gastroenterology, Centro Hospitalar São João, Porto, Portugal; Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Portugal.
| | - Julio Iglesias-Garcia
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital of Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Rui Gaspar
- Department of Gastroenterology, Centro Hospitalar São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Guilherme Macedo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Centro Hospitalar São João, Porto, Portugal; Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Portugal
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Chen J, Ning C, Zhou Z, Yu P, Zhu Y, Tan G, Mao C. Nanomaterials as photothermal therapeutic agents. PROGRESS IN MATERIALS SCIENCE 2019; 99:1-26. [PMID: 30568319 PMCID: PMC6295417 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmatsci.2018.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 357] [Impact Index Per Article: 71.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Curing cancer has been one of the greatest conundrums in the modern medical field. To reduce side-effects associated with the traditional cancer therapy such as radiotherapy and chemotherapy, photothermal therapy (PTT) has been recognized as one of the most promising treatments for cancer over recent years. PTT relies on ablation agents such as nanomaterials with a photothermal effect, for converting light into heat. In this way, elevated temperature could kill cancer cells while avoiding significant side effects on normal cells. This theory works because normal cells have a higher heat tolerance than cancer cells. Thus, nanomaterials with photothermal effects have attracted enormous attention due to their selectivity and non-invasive attributes. This review article summarizes the current status of employing nanomaterials with photothermal effects for anti-cancer treatment. Mechanisms of the photothermal effect and various factors affecting photothermal performance will be discussed. Efficient and selective PTT is believed to play an increasingly prominent role in cancer treatment. Moreover, merging PTT with other methods of cancer therapies is also discussed as a future trend.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junqi Chen
- College of Material Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510641, China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Biomedical Engineering, Guangzhou 510641, China
| | - Chengyun Ning
- College of Material Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510641, China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Biomedical Engineering, Guangzhou 510641, China
| | - Zhengnan Zhou
- College of Material Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510641, China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Biomedical Engineering, Guangzhou 510641, China
| | - Peng Yu
- College of Material Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510641, China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Biomedical Engineering, Guangzhou 510641, China
| | - Ye Zhu
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Stephenson Life Sciences Research Center, Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Science and Technology, University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma, United States
| | - Guoxin Tan
- Institute of Chemical Engineering and Light Industry, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Chuanbin Mao
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Stephenson Life Sciences Research Center, Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Science and Technology, University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma, United States
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310027, China
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Shojaee S, Vachani A, Nana-Sinkam P. The Financial Implications of Lung Cancer Screening: Is It Worth It? J Thorac Oncol 2018; 12:1177-1179. [PMID: 28748812 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtho.2017.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2017] [Accepted: 06/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Samira Shojaee
- Division of Pulmonary Diseases and Critical Care Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Anil Vachani
- Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Division, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Patrick Nana-Sinkam
- Division of Pulmonary Diseases and Critical Care Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia.
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Rossi SH, Klatte T, Usher-Smith J, Stewart GD. Epidemiology and screening for renal cancer. World J Urol 2018; 36:1341-1353. [PMID: 29610964 PMCID: PMC6105141 DOI: 10.1007/s00345-018-2286-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 169] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2018] [Accepted: 03/28/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The widespread use of abdominal imaging has affected the epidemiology of renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Despite this, over 25% of individuals with RCC have evidence of metastases at presentation. Screening for RCC has the potential to downstage the disease. METHODS We performed a literature review on the epidemiology of RCC and evidence base regarding screening. Furthermore, contemporary RCC epidemiology data was obtained for the United Kingdom and trends in age-standardised rates of incidence and mortality were analysed by annual percentage change statistics and joinpoint regression. RESULTS The incidence of RCC in the UK increased by 3.1% annually from 1993 through 2014. Urinary dipstick is an inadequate screening tool due to low sensitivity and specificity. It is unlikely that CT would be recommended for population screening due to cost, radiation dose and increased potential for other incidental findings. Screening ultrasound has a sensitivity and specificity of 82-83% and 98-99%, respectively; however, accuracy is dependent on tumour size. No clinically validated urinary nor serum biomarkers have been identified. Major barriers to population screening include the relatively low prevalence of the disease, the potential for false positives and over-diagnosis of slow-growing RCCs. Individual patient risk-stratification based on a combination of risk factors may improve screening efficiency and minimise harms by identifying a group at high risk of RCC. CONCLUSION The incidence of RCC is increasing. The optimal screening modality and target population remain to be elucidated. An analysis of the benefits and harms of screening for patients and society is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina H. Rossi
- Academic Urology Group, University of Cambridge, Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Hills Road, Box 43, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ UK
| | - Tobias Klatte
- Department of Urology, Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ UK
| | - Juliet Usher-Smith
- The Primary Care Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0SR UK
| | - Grant D. Stewart
- Academic Urology Group, University of Cambridge, Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Hills Road, Box 43, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ UK
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Variability in CT imaging of blunt trauma among ED physicians, surgical residents, and trauma surgeons. J Surg Res 2017; 213:6-15. [PMID: 28601333 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2017.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2016] [Revised: 12/16/2016] [Accepted: 02/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Trauma triage decisions can be influenced by both knowledge and experience. Consequently, there may be substantial variability in computed tomography (CT) scans desired by emergency medicine physicians, surgical chief residents, and attending trauma surgeons. We quantified this difference and studied the effects of each group's decisions on missed injuries, cost, and radiation exposure. METHODS All blunt trauma activations at an urban level 1 trauma center were studied over a 6-mo period. Three months into the study, a pan-scan protocol was introduced. Prior to CT imaging, providers separately completed a survey that asked which CT scans were desired for each patient. Based on the completed surveys, hypothetical missed injuries, radiation exposure, and cost were determined. RESULTS The variability in the number of CT scans desired by each of the three providers and the resulting cost and radiation exposure were not statistically significant. Substantial variability was predominantly seen in the indications for the desired scans, with the difference between proportions ranging from 3.1%-68.7%. Agreement among the three providers was highest for head and c-spine scans (80%-100%) and lowest for maxillary face (57%-80%) and chest scans (52%-74%). Overall, the missed injury rate was similar for all the providers; chief residents missed significantly more major injuries than trauma attendings during the pan-scan period (P = 0.03). CONCLUSIONS Trauma training and level of training did not have a substantial effect on radiological decisions during the initial trauma assessment. This study sheds light on the growing uniformity among providers with regard to medical decision-making in the initial work-up of trauma.
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Duty to Inform and Informed Consent in Diagnostic Radiology: How Ethics and Law can Better Guide Practice. HEC Forum 2017; 28:75-94. [PMID: 25749428 DOI: 10.1007/s10730-015-9275-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Although there is consensus on the fact that ionizing radiation used in radiological examinations can affect health, the stochastic (random) nature of risk makes it difficult to anticipate and assess specific health implications for patients. The issue of radiation protection is peculiar as any dosage received in life is cumulative, the sensitivity to radiation is highly variable from one person to another, and between 20 % and 50 % of radiological examinations appear not to be necessary. In this context, one might reasonably assume that information and patient consent would play an important role in regulating radiological practice. However, there is to date no clear consensus regarding the nature and content of-or even need for-consent by patients exposed to ionizing radiation. While law and ethics support the same principles for respecting the dignity of the person (inviolability and integrity), in the context of radiology practice, they do not provide a consistent message to guide clinical decision-making. This article analyzes the issue of healthcare professionals' duty to inform and obtain patient consent for radiological examinations. Considering that both law and ethics have as one of their aims to protect vulnerable populations, it is important that they begin to give greater attention to issues raised by the use of ionizing radiation in medicine. While the situation in Canada serves as a backdrop for a reflective analysis of the problem, the conclusions are pertinent for professional practice in other jurisdictions because the principles underlying health law and jurisprudence are fairly general.
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James MK, Francois MP, Yoeli G, Doughlin GK, Lee SW. Incidental findings in blunt trauma patients: prevalence, follow-up documentation, and risk factors. Emerg Radiol 2017; 24:347-353. [DOI: 10.1007/s10140-017-1479-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2016] [Accepted: 01/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Introduction of a pan-scan protocol for blunt trauma activations: what are the consequences? Am J Emerg Med 2017; 35:13-19. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ajem.2016.09.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2016] [Revised: 09/13/2016] [Accepted: 09/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
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Raymakers AJN, Mayo J, Lam S, FitzGerald JM, Whitehurst DGT, Lynd LD. Cost-Effectiveness Analyses of Lung Cancer Screening Strategies Using Low-Dose Computed Tomography: a Systematic Review. APPLIED HEALTH ECONOMICS AND HEALTH POLICY 2016; 14:409-418. [PMID: 26873091 DOI: 10.1007/s40258-016-0226-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lung cancer screening with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) has been shown to deliver appreciable reductions in mortality in high-risk patients. However, in an era of constrained medical resources, the cost-effectiveness of such a program needs to be demonstrated. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to systematically review the literature analyzing the cost-effectiveness of lung cancer screening using LDCT. METHODS We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, EBM Reviews-Health Technology Assessment, the National Health Service Economic Evaluation Database (NHS-EED), and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Due to technological progress in CT, we limited our search to studies published between January 2000 and December 2014. Our search returned 393 unique results. After removing studies that did not meet our inclusion criteria, 13 studies remained. Costs are presented in 2014 US dollars (US$). RESULTS The results from the economic evaluations identified in this review were varied. All identified studies reported outcomes using either additional survival (life-years gained) or quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs gained). Results ranged from US$18,452 to US$66,480 per LYG and US$27,756 to US$243,077 per QALY gained for repeated screening. The results of cost-effectiveness analyses were sensitive to several key model parameters, including the prevalence of lung cancer, cost of LDCT for screening, the proportion of lung cancer detected as localized disease, lead time bias, and, if included, the characteristics of a smoking cessation program. CONCLUSIONS The cost-effectiveness of a lung cancer screening program using LDCT remains to be conclusively resolved. It is expected that its cost-effectiveness will largely depend on identifying an appropriate group of high-risk subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam J N Raymakers
- Collaboration for Outcomes Research and Evaluation (CORE), Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Room 4102-2405 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
- Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcomes Sciences (CHEOS), St Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
| | - John Mayo
- Department of Radiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Stephen Lam
- Department of Integrative Oncology, British Columbia Cancer Agency, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - J Mark FitzGerald
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - David G T Whitehurst
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
- Centre for Clinical Epidemiology and Evaluation, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Larry D Lynd
- Collaboration for Outcomes Research and Evaluation (CORE), Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Room 4102-2405 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcomes Sciences (CHEOS), St Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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Livingston CJ, Freeman RJ, Mohammad A, Costales VC, Titus TM, Harvey BJ, Sherin KM. Choosing Wisely® in Preventive Medicine: The American College of Preventive Medicine's Top 5 List of Recommendations. Am J Prev Med 2016; 51:141-9. [PMID: 27155735 DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2016.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2015] [Revised: 02/11/2016] [Accepted: 03/14/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The Choosing Wisely(®) initiative is a national campaign led by the American Board of Internal Medicine Foundation, focused on quality improvement and advancing a dialogue on avoiding wasteful or unnecessary medical tests, procedures, and treatments. The American College of Preventive Medicine (ACPM) Prevention Practice Committee is an active participant in the Choosing Wisely project. The committee created the ACPM Choosing Wisely Task Force to lead the development of ACPM's recommendations with the intention of facilitating wise decisions about the appropriate use of preventive care. After utilizing an iterative process that involved reviewing evidence-based literature, the ACPM Choosing Wisely Task Force developed five recommendations targeted toward overused services within the field of preventive medicine. These include: (1) don't take a multivitamin, vitamin E, or beta carotene to prevent cardiovascular disease or cancer; (2) don't routinely perform prostate-specific antigen-based screening for prostate cancer; (3) don't use whole-body scans for early tumor detection in asymptomatic patients; (4) don't use expensive medications when an equally effective and lower-cost medication is available; and (5) don't perform screening for cervical cancer in low-risk women aged 65 years or older and in women who have had a total hysterectomy for benign disease. The Task Force also reviewed some of the barriers to implementing these recommendations, taking into account the interplay between system and environmental characteristics, and identified specific strategies necessary for timely utilization of these recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Amir Mohammad
- VA Connecticut HCS/Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | | | | | - Bart J Harvey
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Kevin M Sherin
- University of Central Florida College of Medicine, Florida State University College of Medicine, Orlando, Florida
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Bressan AK, Ouellet JF, Tanyingoh D, Dixon E, Kaplan GG, Grondin SC, Myers RP, Mohamed R, Ball CG. Temporal trends in the use of diagnostic imaging for inpatients with pancreatic conditions: How much ionizing radiation are we using? Can J Surg 2016; 59:188-96. [PMID: 27240285 DOI: 10.1503/cjs.006015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Low-dose ionizing radiation from medical imaging has been indirectly linked with subsequent cancer and increased costs. Computed tomography (CT) is the gold standard for defining pancreatic anatomy and complications. Our primary goal was to identify the temporal trends associated with diagnostic imaging for inpatients with pancreatic diseases. METHODS Data were extracted from the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) database from 2000 to 2008. Pancreas-related ICD-9 diagnostic codes were matched to all relevant imaging modalities. RESULTS Between 2000 and 2008, a significant increase in admissions (p < 0.001), but decrease in overall imaging procedures (p = 0.032), for all pancreatic disorders was observed. This was primarily a result of a reduction in the number of CT and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography examinations (i.e., reduced radiation exposure, p = 0.008). A concurrent increase in the number of inpatient magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography/magnetic resonance imaging performed was observed (p = 0.040). Intraoperative cholangiography and CT remained the dominant imaging modality of choice overall (p = 0.027). CONCLUSION Inpatients with pancreatic diseases often require diagnostic imaging during their stay. This results in substantial exposure to ionizing radiation. The observed decrease in the use of CT may reflect an improved awareness of potential stochastic risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexsander K Bressan
- From the Department of Surgery, University of Calgary, Foothills Medical Centre, Calgary, Alta. (Bressan, Ouellet, Tanyingoh, Dixon, Grondin, Ball); and the Department of Medicine, University of Calgary, Foothills Medical Centre, Calgary, Alta. (Kaplan, Tanyingoh, Myers, Mohamed)
| | - Jean-Francois Ouellet
- From the Department of Surgery, University of Calgary, Foothills Medical Centre, Calgary, Alta. (Bressan, Ouellet, Tanyingoh, Dixon, Grondin, Ball); and the Department of Medicine, University of Calgary, Foothills Medical Centre, Calgary, Alta. (Kaplan, Tanyingoh, Myers, Mohamed)
| | - Divine Tanyingoh
- From the Department of Surgery, University of Calgary, Foothills Medical Centre, Calgary, Alta. (Bressan, Ouellet, Tanyingoh, Dixon, Grondin, Ball); and the Department of Medicine, University of Calgary, Foothills Medical Centre, Calgary, Alta. (Kaplan, Tanyingoh, Myers, Mohamed)
| | - Elijah Dixon
- From the Department of Surgery, University of Calgary, Foothills Medical Centre, Calgary, Alta. (Bressan, Ouellet, Tanyingoh, Dixon, Grondin, Ball); and the Department of Medicine, University of Calgary, Foothills Medical Centre, Calgary, Alta. (Kaplan, Tanyingoh, Myers, Mohamed)
| | - Gilaad G Kaplan
- From the Department of Surgery, University of Calgary, Foothills Medical Centre, Calgary, Alta. (Bressan, Ouellet, Tanyingoh, Dixon, Grondin, Ball); and the Department of Medicine, University of Calgary, Foothills Medical Centre, Calgary, Alta. (Kaplan, Tanyingoh, Myers, Mohamed)
| | - Sean C Grondin
- From the Department of Surgery, University of Calgary, Foothills Medical Centre, Calgary, Alta. (Bressan, Ouellet, Tanyingoh, Dixon, Grondin, Ball); and the Department of Medicine, University of Calgary, Foothills Medical Centre, Calgary, Alta. (Kaplan, Tanyingoh, Myers, Mohamed)
| | - Robert P Myers
- From the Department of Surgery, University of Calgary, Foothills Medical Centre, Calgary, Alta. (Bressan, Ouellet, Tanyingoh, Dixon, Grondin, Ball); and the Department of Medicine, University of Calgary, Foothills Medical Centre, Calgary, Alta. (Kaplan, Tanyingoh, Myers, Mohamed)
| | - Rachid Mohamed
- From the Department of Surgery, University of Calgary, Foothills Medical Centre, Calgary, Alta. (Bressan, Ouellet, Tanyingoh, Dixon, Grondin, Ball); and the Department of Medicine, University of Calgary, Foothills Medical Centre, Calgary, Alta. (Kaplan, Tanyingoh, Myers, Mohamed)
| | - Chad G Ball
- From the Department of Surgery, University of Calgary, Foothills Medical Centre, Calgary, Alta. (Bressan, Ouellet, Tanyingoh, Dixon, Grondin, Ball); and the Department of Medicine, University of Calgary, Foothills Medical Centre, Calgary, Alta. (Kaplan, Tanyingoh, Myers, Mohamed)
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Economic evaluation of whole-genome sequencing in healthy individuals: what can we learn from CEAs of whole-body CT screening? Genet Med 2015; 18:103-4. [PMID: 26633543 DOI: 10.1038/gim.2015.159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2015] [Accepted: 09/04/2015] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
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Kim VM, Ahuja N. Early detection of pancreatic cancer. Chin J Cancer Res 2015; 27:321-31. [PMID: 26361402 DOI: 10.3978/j.issn.1000-9604.2015.07.03] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2015] [Accepted: 07/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic adenocarcinoma is a low-incident but highly mortal disease. It accounts for only 3% of estimated new cancer cases each year but is currently the fourth common cause of cancer mortality. By 2030, it is expected to be the 2(nd) leading cause of cancer death. There is a clear need to diagnose and classify pancreatic cancer at earlier stages in order to give patients the best chance at a definitive cure through surgery. Three precursor lesions that distinctly lead to pancreatic adenocarcinoma have been identified, and we have increasing understanding the non-genetic and genetic risk factors for the disease. With increased understanding about the risk factors, the familial patters, and associated accumulation of genetic mutations involved in pancreatic cancer, we know that there are mutations that occur early in the development of pancreatic cancer and that improved genetic risk-based strategies in screening for pancreatic cancer may be possible and successful at saving or prolonging lives. The remaining challenge is that current standards for diagnosing pancreatic cancer remain too invasive and too costly for widespread screening for pancreatic cancer. Furthermore, the promises of noninvasive methods of detection such as blood, saliva, and stool remain underdeveloped or lack robust testing. However, significant progress has been made, and we are drawing closer to a strategy for the screening and early detection of pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria M Kim
- 1 Department of Surgery and Medical Oncology, The Sol Goldman Pancreatic Cancer Research Center, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA ; 2 Department of Urology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Nita Ahuja
- 1 Department of Surgery and Medical Oncology, The Sol Goldman Pancreatic Cancer Research Center, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA ; 2 Department of Urology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Wáng YXJ, Gong JS, Loffroy R. On pancreatic cancer screening by magnetic resonance imaging with the recent evidence by Del Chiaro and colleagues. Chin J Cancer Res 2015; 27:417-22. [PMID: 26361411 DOI: 10.3978/j.issn.1000-9604.2015.06.09] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2015] [Accepted: 06/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Yì-Xiáng J Wáng
- 1 Department of Imaging and Interventional Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, China ; 2 Department of Radiology, Shenzhen People's Hospital, Second Clinical Medicine College of Jinan University, Shenzhen 518020, China ; 3 Department of Vascular, Oncologic and Interventional Radiology, Le2i UMR CNRS 6306, University of Dijon School of Medicine, Bocage Teaching Hospital, Dijon Cedex, France
| | - Jing-Shan Gong
- 1 Department of Imaging and Interventional Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, China ; 2 Department of Radiology, Shenzhen People's Hospital, Second Clinical Medicine College of Jinan University, Shenzhen 518020, China ; 3 Department of Vascular, Oncologic and Interventional Radiology, Le2i UMR CNRS 6306, University of Dijon School of Medicine, Bocage Teaching Hospital, Dijon Cedex, France
| | - Romaric Loffroy
- 1 Department of Imaging and Interventional Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, China ; 2 Department of Radiology, Shenzhen People's Hospital, Second Clinical Medicine College of Jinan University, Shenzhen 518020, China ; 3 Department of Vascular, Oncologic and Interventional Radiology, Le2i UMR CNRS 6306, University of Dijon School of Medicine, Bocage Teaching Hospital, Dijon Cedex, France
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Booth TC, Boyd-Ellison JM. The current impact of incidental findings found during neuroimaging on neurologists' workloads. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0118155. [PMID: 25723558 PMCID: PMC4344225 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0118155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2014] [Accepted: 01/08/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Neuroimaging is an important diagnostic tool in the assessment of neurological disease, but often unmasks Incidental Findings (IFs). The negative impacts of IFs, such as ‘patient’ anxiety, present neurologists with management dilemmas, largely due to the limited knowledge base surrounding the medical significance of these IFs. In particular, the lack of evidence-based clinical trials investigating the efficacy of treatments for subclinical IFs makes management protocols challenging. The objective was to determine the impact IFs may have on neurologists’ workloads and healthcare budgets and to examine neurologists’ concerns regarding the clinical management of these ‘patients’. Methods Qualitative research based on constructivist grounded theory. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews of purposively sampled neurologists, coded, and concurrent comparative analysis performed. A substantive theory of the ‘IF impacts’ was developed after concept saturation. Results Neurologists managed the escalating workload caused by an increased number of referrals of ‘patients’ with IFs found during neuroimaging; however it was unclear whether this was sustainable in the future. Neurologists experienced IF management dilemmas and spent more time with ‘patients’ affected by anxiety. The lack of information provided to those undergoing neuroimaging by the referring clinician regarding the possibility of discovering IFs was highlighted. Conclusion The impact of IFs upon the neurologist, ‘patient’ and the health institution appeared considerable. Further research determining the natural history of subclinical IFs and the efficacy of intervention will help to alleviate these issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas C. Booth
- Lysholm Department of Neuroradiology, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Queen Square, London, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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Abstract
Even with improved cancer care generally, the incidence and death rate is increasing for pancreatic cancer. Concern exists that a further increase in deaths caused by pancreatic cancer will be seen as other causes of death, such as heart disease and other cancers, decline. Critical exploration of screening high-risk patients as a tool to reduce deaths from pancreatic cancer should be considered. Technological advances and improved understanding of pancreatic cancer biology provides an opportunity to identify and test a panel of early detection biomarkers easily, accurately, and inexpensively measured in blood, urine, stool, or saliva samples. These biomarkers may have additional usefulness in staging, stratification for treatment, establishing prognosis, and assessing response to therapy in this disease. Screening may prove to be one of several strategies to improve outcomes in a disease that has otherwise been difficult to defeat.
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Pan computed tomography versus selective computed tomography in stable, young adults after blunt trauma with moderate mechanism. J Trauma Acute Care Surg 2014; 77:527-33; discussion 533. [DOI: 10.1097/ta.0000000000000416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES The purpose of the study was to review diagnostic imaging in trauma patients. We hypothesized that diagnostic musculoskeletal imaging has increased over time, but at a lesser rate than radiography performed for other purposes. Two trauma centers were compared. DESIGN Retrospective multicenter study. SETTING Two level 1 trauma centers. PATIENTS/PARTICIPANTS Five hundred patients per year from each trauma centers were reviewed for 2002, 2005, and 2008. MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS Effective doses [millisieverts (mSv)] and total charges for radiography were calculated. RESULTS Most imaging was performed within 24 hours of injury. In 2002, 15% of all radiographic studies were computed tomography (CT) scans compared with 33% in 2008 (P < 0.0001). Center 1 used more CT, and center 2 used more projection (plain) radiography. The percentage of musculoskeletal CTs increased from 26% in 2002 to 49% in 2008 (P < 0.0001), without change in patient acuity. The mean effective dose per patient was 17.3 mSv in 2002, 30.0 mSv in 2005, and 34.1 mSv in 2008 (P < 0.001). The percentage of total dose attributable to musculoskeletal studies increased from 25% in 2002, to 29% in 2005, and 31% in 2008 (P < 0.001). Mean total charges per patient were $4529 in 2002; $6922 in 2005; and $7750 in 2008 (P < 0.001), with higher 2008 mean charges at center 1 versus 2 ($8694 vs. $6806, P = 0.001), primarily because of more CT scans. CONCLUSIONS The number of diagnostic imaging tests, radiation dose, and related charges in trauma patients increased over time at both trauma centers, with CT scans accounting for most of the radiation dose and costs. A shift toward more advanced imaging from conventional projection radiography was noted at both trauma centers. Effective dose per patient more than doubled over the course of study at center 1. By 2008, half of all radiographic studies were for musculoskeletal purposes. Previous studies have suggested an increased risk of cancer with exposures of 20-40 mSv, making the mean total radiation doses in excess of 30.0 mSv since 2005 of great concern. Variability in ordering patterns between the 2 centers with similar patient acuity suggests opportunity for discussion about indications for utilization, which could result in lower radiation doses and fewer expenses.
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The frequency and nature of incidental findings in cone-beam computed tomographic scans of the head and neck region: a systematic review. J Am Dent Assoc 2014; 144:161-70. [PMID: 23372132 DOI: 10.14219/jada.archive.2013.0095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The authors analyzed the literature critically to determine the frequency and nature of incidental findings (IFs) in cone-beam computed tomographic (CBCT) scans of the head and neck region. TYPES OF STUDIES REVIEWED The authors conducted a systematic search of several electronic databases (MEDLINE, Embase, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library) through July 14, 2012, as well as a limited gray-literature search (in Google Scholar). Inclusion criteria encompassed the frequency of reports of IFs in the head and neck region in CBCT imaging, regardless of the sample origin. The authors used no search limitations. They evaluated methodological quality according to 15 criteria related to study design, population characteristics and statistical analysis. RESULTS Initially, the authors identified 66 articles from the electronic database searches and another one via the gray-literature search. Once they applied the final selection criteria, they found that only five articles satisfied the inclusion criteria. In articles in which investigators reported the number of IFs as the absolute number of IFs detected, the frequency ranged from 1.3 to 2.9 IFs per CBCT scan. Conversely, in articles in which authors reported the number of IFs as the number of scans containing IFs, the frequency ranged from 24.6 to 93.4 percent of CBCT scans. Methodological quality averaged 77.2 percent (range, 60-93 percent) of the maximum possible score. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS IFs are detected relatively frequently in CBCT imaging, and considerable variation is evident in their frequency and nature. The majority are extragnathic findings (that is, those found outside the region of the dentition and alveolus), thus emphasizing the need for complete and proper review of the entire image, regardless of field of view or region of interest.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE The cancer risks associated with patient exposure to radiation from medical imaging have become a major topic of debate. The higher doses necessary for technologies such as CT and the increasing utilization of these technologies further increase medical radiation exposure to the population. Furthermore, the use of CT for population-based cancer screening continues to be explored for common malignancies such as lung cancer and colorectal cancer. Given the known carcinogenic effects of ionizing radiation, this warrants evaluation of the balance between the benefit of early cancer detection and the risk of screening-induced malignancy. CONCLUSION This report provides a brief review of the process of radiation carcino-genesis and the literature evaluating the risk of malignancy from CT, with a focus on the risks and benefits of CT for cancer screening. The available data suggest a small but real risk of radiation-induced malignancy from CT that could become significant at the population level with widespread use of CT-based screening. However, a growing body of literature suggests that the benefits of CT screening for lung cancer in high-risk patients and CT colonography for colorectal cancer may significantly outweigh the radiation risk. Future studies evaluating the benefits of CT screening should continue to consider potential radiation risks.
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Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is the fourth most common cause of cancer mortality in the United States, with 5-year survival rates for patients with resectable tumors ranging from 15% to 20%. However, most patients presenting with distant metastases, are not resectable, and have a 5-year survival rate of close to 0%. This demonstrates a need for improved screening to identify pancreatic cancer while the tumor is still localized and amenable to surgical resection. Studies of patients with pancreatic tumors incidentally diagnosed demonstrate longer median survival than tumors discovered only when the patient is symptomatic, suggesting that early detection may improve outcome. Recent evidence from genomic sequencing indicates a 15-year interval for genetic progression of pancreatic cancer from initiation to the metastatic stage, suggesting a sufficient window for early detection. Still, many challenges remain in implementing effective screening. Early diagnosis of pancreatic cancer relies on developing screening methodologies with highly sensitive and specific biomarkers and imaging modalities. It also depends on a better understanding of the risk factors and natural history of the disease to accurately identify high-risk groups that would be best served by screening. This review summarizes our current understanding of the biology of pancreatic cancer relevant to methods available for screening. At this time, given the lack of proven benefit in this disease, screening efforts should probably be undertaken in the context of prospective trials.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Computed tomography (CT) scans have become imaging modalities of choice in trauma centers. The purposes of this study were to evaluate the trend of radiation exposure in acute trauma patients. Our hypothesis was that radiation dosage and charges would increase over time without change in patient acuity or outcome. METHODS Five hundred consecutive trauma patients were retrospectively reviewed for the years 2002, 2005, and 2008. Total number of CT scans, plain radiographs, and total radiation dosage (milliSieverts [mSV]) were determined. Charges were calculated. Injury severity scores and mortality were determined. RESULTS The mean number of CT scans for category 1 patients in 2002, 2005, and 2008 was 1.5, 3.1, and 4.6, respectively (p = 0.01). This trend was similar in category 2 patients: 2.0, 3.5, 5.1, respectively (p < 0.01). Significant decreases in plain radiography were noted concurrently. This contributed to increased total radiation exposure to categories 1 and 2 patients over 2002, 2005, and 2008: 12.0 mSV, 23.6 mSV, and 33.6 mSV (p = 0.02); and 17.5 mSV, 24.1 mSV, and 37.5 mSV (p < 0.001), respectively. Charges for diagnostic imaging per patient also increased for categories 1 and 2 patients over 2002, 2005, and 2008: $2,933, $4,656, and $6,677; and $4,105, $5,344, and $7,365, respectively (all p < 0.01). Over the course of a year for 4,800 trauma patients treated at our hospital, this is expected to accrue additional charges of $13 million. CONCLUSION The number of CT scans per trauma patient has more than doubled over 6 years, generating more radiation exposure and charges per patient, despite no change in mortality or injury severity. Judicious use of advanced imaging may control risks and costs without compromising care. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III, retrospective.
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Pietzsch JB, Garner A, Cipriano LE, Linehan JH. An integrated health-economic analysis of diagnostic and therapeutic strategies in the treatment of moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea. Sleep 2011; 34:695-709. [PMID: 21629357 DOI: 10.5665/sleep.1030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVES Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common disorder associated with substantially increased cardiovascular risks, reduced quality of life, and increased risk of motor vehicle collisions due to daytime sleepiness. This study evaluates the cost-effectiveness of three commonly used diagnostic strategies (full-night polysomnography, split-night polysomnography, unattended portable home-monitoring) in conjunction with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy in patients with moderate-to-severe OSA. DESIGN A Markov model was created to compare costs and effectiveness of different diagnostic and therapeutic strategies over a 10-year interval and the expected lifetime of the patient. The primary measure of cost-effectiveness was incremental cost per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained. PATIENTS OR PARTICIPANTS Baseline computations were performed for a hypothetical average cohort of 50-year-old males with a 50% pretest probability of having moderate-to-severe OSA (apnea-hypopnea index [AHI] ≥ 15 events per hour). MEASUREMENTS AND RESULTS For a patient with moderate-to-severe OSA, CPAP therapy has an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of $15,915 per QALY gained for the lifetime horizon. Over the lifetime horizon in a population with 50% prevalence of OSA, full-night polysomnography in conjunction with CPAP therapy is the most economically efficient strategy at any willingness-to-pay greater than $17,131 per-QALY gained because it dominates all other strategies in comparative analysis. CONCLUSIONS Full-night polysomnography (PSG) is cost-effective and is the preferred diagnostic strategy for adults suspected to have moderate-to-severe OSA when all diagnostic options are available. Split-night PSG and unattended home monitoring can be considered cost-effective alternatives when full-night PSG is not available.
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Jibawi A, Ahmed I, El-Sakka K, Yusuf SW. Management of concomitant cancer and abdominal aortic aneurysm. Cardiol Res Pract 2011; 2011:516146. [PMID: 21559270 PMCID: PMC3087962 DOI: 10.4061/2011/516146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2010] [Revised: 01/04/2011] [Accepted: 02/23/2011] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background. The coexistence of neoplasm and abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) presents a real management challenge. This paper reviews the literature on the prevalence, diagnosis, and management dilemmas of concurrent visceral malignancy and abdominal aortic aneurysm. Method. The MEDLINE and HIGHWIRE databases (1966-present) were searched. Papers detailing relevant data were assessed for quality and validity. All case series, review articles, and references of such articles were searched for additional relevant papers. Results. Current challenges in decision making, the effect of major body-cavity surgery on an untreated aneurysm, the effects of major vascular surgery on the treatment of malignancy, the use of EVAR (endovascular aortic aneurysm repair) as a fairly low-risk procedure and its role in the management of malignancy, and the effect of other challenging issues such as the use of adjuvant therapy, and patients informed decision-making were reviewed and discussed. Conclusion. In synchronous malignancy and abdominal aortic aneurysm, the most life-threatening lesion should be addressed first. Endovascular aneurysm repair where possible, followed by malignancy resection, is becoming the preferred initial treatment choice in most centres.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah Jibawi
- The Vascular Unit, Brighton and Sussex University Hospital, Brighton BN25BE, UK
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Relationship of detection rate of PET cancer screening examinees and risk factors: analysis of background of examinees. Ann Nucl Med 2010; 25:261-7. [DOI: 10.1007/s12149-010-0458-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2009] [Accepted: 11/14/2010] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Ball CG, Correa-Gallego C, Howard TJ, Zyromski NJ, House MG, Pitt HA, Nakeeb A, Schmidt CM, Akisik F, Lillemoe KD. Radiation dose from computed tomography in patients with necrotizing pancreatitis: how much is too much? J Gastrointest Surg 2010; 14:1529-35. [PMID: 20824381 DOI: 10.1007/s11605-010-1314-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2010] [Accepted: 08/09/2010] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Low-dose ionizing radiation from medical imaging has been indirectly linked with subsequent cancer. Computed tomography (CT) is the gold standard for defining pancreatic necrosis. The primary goal was to identify the frequency and effective radiation dose of CT imaging for patients with necrotizing pancreatitis. METHODS All patients with necrotizing pancreatitis (2003-2007) were retrospectively analyzed for CT-related radiation exposure. RESULTS Necrosis was identified in 18% (238/1290) of patients with acute pancreatitis (mean age = 53 years; hospital/ICU length of stay = 23/7 days; mortality = 9%). A median of five CTs/patient [interquartile range (IQR) = 4] were performed during a median 2.6-month interval. The average effective dose was 40 mSv per patient (equivalent to 2,000 chest X-rays; 13.2 years of background radiation; one out of 250 increased risk of fatal cancer). The actual effective dose was 63 mSv considering various scanner technologies. CTs were infrequently (20%) followed by direct intervention (199 interventional radiology, 118 operative, 12 endoscopic) (median = 1; IQR = 2). Magnetic resonance imaging did not have a CT-sparing effect. Mean direct hospital costs increased linearly with CT number (R = 0.7). CONCLUSIONS The effective radiation dose received by patients with necrotizing pancreatitis is significant. Management changes infrequently follow CT imaging. The ubiquitous use of CT in necrotizing pancreatitis raises substantial public health concerns and mandates a careful reassessment of its utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chad G Ball
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University, 545 Barnhill Drive, Emerson Hall 203, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA.
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Myth: whole-body screening is an effective way to detect hidden cancers. J Health Serv Res Policy 2010; 15:118-9. [PMID: 20339153 DOI: 10.1258/jhsrp.2009.141209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
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- Canadian Health Services Research Foundation, 1565 Carling Avenue, Suite 700, Ottawa Ontario, Canada K1Z 8R1
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Hassan C, Pickhardt PJ, Zullo A, Di Giulio E, Laghi A, Kim DH, Iafrate F. Cost-effectiveness of early colonoscopy surveillance after cancer resection. Dig Liver Dis 2009; 41:881-5. [PMID: 19467938 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2009.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2009] [Revised: 02/25/2009] [Accepted: 03/25/2009] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Short-interval surveillance colonoscopy at 1 year has been recently recommended following curative-intent surgery for colorectal cancer. However, the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of this endoscopic strategy is largely unknown. AIM To assess the clinical and economic impact of early surveillance post-surgical colonoscopy at 1 year in relation to the detection of metachronous colorectal cancer. METHODS A decision analysis model was constructed in order to compare a strategy of 1-year endoscopic surveillance versus no early endoscopy following surgical resection for colorectal cancer. A 2-year cancer upstaging was modelled in order to simulate cancer progression in patients with metachronous colorectal cancer who were not referred to early endoscopy. Endoscopic prevalence of metachronous colorectal cancer was estimated from a previous pooled data analysis based on systematic review of the literature. Costs of colonoscopy and cancer care were estimated from Medicare reimbursement data. Outcome measures were the number of early colonoscopies needed to detect one case of cancer or to prevent one cancer-related death and the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio. RESULTS The number of early 1-year colonoscopies needed to detect one colorectal cancer and to prevent one colorectal cancer-related death was 143 and 926, respectively. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of the early 1-year colonoscopy as compared to a policy of not performing it was $40,313 per life-year gained. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of performing early surveillance colonoscopy was sensitive to the changes in cancer prevalence. However, only a reduction from the baseline value of 0.7% to 0.19% was associated with an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio higher than $150,000. Other assumptions about cancer upstaging, initial distribution of cancer, and costs had a lesser influence on incremental cost-effectiveness ratio differences. CONCLUSIONS Our study shows that the recently recommended short-interval 1-year surveillance colonoscopy following colorectal cancer resection is a clinically efficient and cost-effective strategy in terms of cancer detection and cancer-specific death prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Hassan
- Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy Unit, Nuovo Regina Margherita Hospital, Rome, Italy.
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Abstract
With improving accuracy and efficiency of CT, some trauma centers have used a low threshold for the use of CT scans in the evaluation and assessment of trauma patients. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic benefits of liberal CT scanning in multisystem blunt trauma motorcycle accident victims. The trauma registry at our community-based Level II center was accessed to identify consecutive motorcycle accident victims within a 55-month period who: 1) were evaluated on presentation by an attending trauma surgeon; and 2) underwent a head, cervical spine, chest, abdomen, or pelvis CT scan or any combination as part of their initial assessment. For those patients with clinically significant findings identified on CT, the percentage of those with negative clinical examinations was calculated. We found that 48, 77, 47, and 69 per cent of patients with clinically significant findings on head, cervical spine, thoracic, and abdominal CT, respectively, had normal clinical examinations. Our data suggest lower thresholds for CT use in the evaluation of patients sustaining multisystem blunt trauma should be adopted, even in the face of normal clinical examinations. This is especially true for the neck and abdominal regions.
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Di Giulio E, Hassan C, Pickhardt PJ, Zullo A, Laghi A, Kim DH, Iafrate F. Cost-effectiveness of upper gastrointestinal endoscopy according to the appropriateness of the indication. Scand J Gastroenterol 2009; 44:491-8. [PMID: 19031302 DOI: 10.1080/00365520802588141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Application of appropriate indications for upper endoscopy (EGD) should conserve limited endoscopic resources. The cost-effectiveness of current guidelines for the detection of gastro-oesophageal cancer is unknown. The aim of this study was to assess the clinical and economic impact of ASGE and EPAGE guidelines in selecting patients referred for upper endoscopy relative to the detection of gastro-oesophageal cancer. MATERIAL AND METHODS A decision analysis model was constructed to compare a strategy of not referring patients for EGD (with either an appropriate or inappropriate indication) with a policy of carrying out the requested EGD. Cancer prevalence in appropriate and inappropriate EGDs was estimated using a systematic review of the literature. Costs of EGD and cancer care were estimated from Medicare reimbursement data. RESULTS The number of appropriate and inappropriate EGDs required to detect one case of cancer was 41 and 753, respectively, and to prevent one gastro-oesophageal cancer-related death the numbers were 571 and 11,111, respectively. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratios of appropriate and inappropriate EGDs as compared to a policy of not referring patients for endoscopy were $16,577 and $301,203, respectively, per life-year gained. CONCLUSIONS For inappropriate EGD, the very low likelihood of cancer and the relatively high costs associated with this procedure argue against endoscopic referral.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilio Di Giulio
- Digestive and Liver Disease Unit, Second Medical School, University La Sapienza, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Rome, Italy
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Abstract
PURPOSE Some colorectal cancers have been unexpectedly diagnosed within one year after polypectomy in high-quality trials. The purpose of this study was to assess the clinical and economic impact of early surveillance colonoscopy one year after polypectomy in relation to detection of colorectal cancer. METHODS A decision analysis model was constructed to compare strategies of performing or not performing one-year endoscopic surveillance in 60-year-old patients who underwent an initial endoscopic polypectomy. Outcome measures included the number of early colonoscopies needed to detect one case of cancer and to prevent one cancer-related death and the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio. RESULTS The number of early one-year colonoscopies needed to detect one cancer and to prevent one cancer-related death was 354 and 1,437, respectively. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of performing early one-year colonoscopy as compared with not performing it was $66,136 per life-year gained. CONCLUSIONS Current guidelines for postpolypectomy surveillance are relatively inefficient in excluding a clinically meaningful colorectal cancer risk at one year after polypectomy.
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Hassan C, Pickhardt PJ, Laghi A, Zullo A, Kim DH, Iafrate F, Di Giulio L, Morini S. Impact of whole-body CT screening on the cost-effectiveness of CT colonography. Radiology 2009; 251:156-65. [PMID: 19332851 DOI: 10.1148/radiol.2511080590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To analyze the impact of adding computed tomographic (CT) imaging of the chest on the clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of CT colonography to determine whether performing CT colonography and whole-body CT is a more clinically and cost-effective strategy than CT colonography alone when screening average-risk subjects. MATERIALS AND METHODS A Markov model simulated the occurrence of colorectal neoplasia, extracolonic abominal-pelvic malignancy, lung cancer, coronary artery disease (CAD), and abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) in a cohort of 100,000 U.S. subjects aged 50 to 100 years. Cost-effectiveness of CT colonography and whole-body CT was compared with that of CT colonography alone; each test was assumed to be repeated every 10 years between ages of 50 and 80 years. RESULTS Performing CT colonography and whole-body CT was more effective and costly than was CT colonography alone. The addition of chest CT was associated with a 22% increase in efficacy (life-years gained: 14,662 vs 11,990) and with a 48% increase in cost per person ($13,605 vs $9,223). Both strategies were cost effective as compared with no screening, with an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of $17,672 (CT colonography alone) and $44,337 (CT colonography and whole-body CT), respectively, but performing CT colonography and whole-body CT was not a cost-effective option when compared with CT colonography alone (ICER, $164,020). This was mainly a result of the high cost of false-positive follow-up for CAD and to the poor efficacy of lung cancer screening. Expected value of perfect information was $520 per patient. CONCLUSION The addition of chest CT to CT colonography does not appear to be a cost-effective alternative. Further research is needed before whole-body CT can be recommended in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cesare Hassan
- Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy Unit, Nuovo Regina Margherita Hospital, Via Morosini 30, 00153, Rome, Italy.
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Lumbreras B, González-Alvárez I, Lorente MF, Calbo J, Aranaz J, Hernández-Aguado I. Unexpected findings at imaging: predicting frequency in various types of studies. Eur J Radiol 2009; 74:269-74. [PMID: 19231122 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejrad.2009.01.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2008] [Revised: 11/11/2008] [Accepted: 01/21/2009] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE : The objective was to evaluate the prevalence and associated variables of unsuspected findings from imaging tests in clinical practice. MATERIAL AND METHODS : Cross-sectional study of patients referred for an imaging test in 2006. Two independent radiologists classified the imaging tests according to the presence or absence of an unexpected finding in relation with the causes that prompted the test (kappa=0.95). A thorough chart review of these patients was carried out as a quality control. RESULTS : Out of 3259 patients in the study, 488 revealed unsuspected findings (15.0%). The prevalence of abnormal findings varied according to age: from 20.4% (150/734) in the over 74-group to 9.0% (76/847) in the under 43-group. The largest prevalence was in the category of infectious diseases (14/49, 28.6%) and in CT (260/901, 28.9%) and ultrasound (138/668, 20.7%). Studies showing moderate clinical information on the referral form were less likely to show unexpected findings than those with null or minor information (OR 0.51; 95% CI 0.36-0.73). CONCLUSION : Clinicians should expect the frequency of diseases detectable by imaging to increase in the future. Further research with follow-up of these findings is needed to estimate the effect of imaging technologies on final health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blanca Lumbreras
- Public Health Department, Miguel Hernández University, Spain; CIBER en Epidemiología y Salud Pública, Spain.
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Abstract
The long-standing discussion concerning the mere existence of single vessel abdominal artery disease can be closed: chronic gastrointestinal ischaemia (CGI) due to single vessel abdominal artery stenosis exists, can be treated successfully and in a safe manner. The most common causes of single vessel CGI are the coeliac artery compression syndrome (CACS) in younger patients, and atherosclerotic disease in elderly patients. The clinical symptoms of single vessel CGI patients are postprandial and exercise-related pain, weight loss, and an abdominal bruit. The current diagnostic approach in patients suspected of single vessel CGI is gastrointestinal tonometry combined with radiological visualisation of the abdominal arteries to define possible arterial stenosis. Especially in single vessel abdominal artery stenosis, gastrointestinal tonometry plays a pivotal role in establishing the diagnosis CGI. First-choice treatment of single vessel CGI remains surgical revascularisation, especially in CACS. In elderly or selected patients endovascular stent placement therapy is an acceptable option.
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Affiliation(s)
- Désirée van Noord
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC-University Medical Centre's, Gravendijkwal 230, 3015 CE Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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Clinical management of small (6- to 9-mm) polyps detected at screening CT colonography: a cost-effectiveness analysis. AJR Am J Roentgenol 2008; 191:1509-16. [PMID: 18941093 DOI: 10.2214/ajr.08.1010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The primary aim of this model analysis was to compare the clinical and economic impacts of immediate polypectomy versus 3-year CT colonography (CTC) surveillance for small (6- to 9-mm) polyps detected at CTC screening. MATERIALS AND METHODS A decision analysis model was constructed incorporating the expected advanced neoplasia prevalence, frequency of measurable growth, colorectal cancer (CRC) prevalence and risk, CTC performance, and costs related to CRC screening and treatment. CRC risk was assumed to be independent of advanced adenoma size, which intentionally overestimates the risk related to small polyps. Clinical effectiveness and costs for 3-year CTC surveillance versus immediate colonoscopic polypectomy were compared for a concentrated cohort of patients with 6- to 9-mm polyps. For the CTC surveillance strategy, only cases with measurable growth (> or = 1 mm) at follow-up CTC were referred for polypectomy. RESULTS Without any intervention, the estimated 5-year CRC death rate from 6- to 9-mm polyps in this concentrated cohort was 0.08%, which is a sevenfold decrease over the 0.56% CRC risk for the general unselected screening population. The death rate was further reduced to 0.03% with the CTC surveillance strategy and to 0.02% with immediate colonoscopy referral. However, for each additional cancer-related death prevented with immediate polypectomy versus CTC follow-up, 9,977 colonoscopy referrals would be needed, resulting in 10 additional perforations and an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of $372,853. CONCLUSION For patients with small (6- to 9-mm) polyps detected at CTC screening, the exclusion of large polyps (> or = 10 mm) already confers a very low risk of CRC. The high costs, additional complications, and relatively low incremental yield associated with immediate polypectomy of 6- to 9-mm polyps support the practice of 3-year CTC surveillance, which allows for selective noninvasive identification of small polyps at risk.
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Hassan C, Di Giulio E, Pickhardt PJ, Zullo A, Laghi A, Kim DH, Iafrate F, Morini S. Cost effectiveness of colonoscopy, based on the appropriateness of an indication. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2008; 6:1231-6. [PMID: 18995214 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2008.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2008] [Revised: 06/05/2008] [Accepted: 06/11/2008] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Determination of the appropriateness of an indication for colonoscopy has been advanced as a means to help rationalize the use of endoscopic resources. However, the efficacy and cost effectiveness of the current guidelines used to select patients for colonoscopy are largely unknown. The goal of this study was to assess the clinical and economic impact of American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy and the European Panel on the appropriateness of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy appropriateness guidelines in selecting patients who are referred for colonoscopy, in relation to colorectal cancer (CRC) detection. METHODS A decision-analysis model was constructed to compare colonoscopy strategies for "appropriate" indications with those for which colonoscopy is deemed "inappropriate" or "generally not indicated." A 50% cancer upstaging was modeled to simulate cancer progression for patients not referred for colonoscopy. CRC prevalence was estimated using a pooled data analysis based on a systematic review of the literature. Costs of colonoscopy and cancer care were estimated from Medicare reimbursement data. The number of colonoscopies needed to detect one case of cancer and to prevent one cancer-related death and incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICER), according to appropriateness categories, were computed in a simulated population of patients that were 60 years of age and referred for colonoscopy. RESULTS The numbers of appropriate and inappropriate colonoscopies that needed to be performed to detect one patient with cancer were 18 and 93, respectively. Similarly, 115 and 617 colonoscopies would be needed, respectively, to prevent one CRC-related death. The ICER for appropriate and inappropriate colonoscopies, compared with a policy of not referring patients to colonoscopy, was $6154 and $31,807 per life-year gained, respectively. In a sensitivity analysis, only a reduction from the baseline value of 1.1% to 0.2% was associated with an ICER for inappropriate colonoscopy higher than $150,000. CONCLUSIONS Current guidelines regarding the appropriateness of colonoscopy are relatively inefficient in excluding a clinically meaningful CRC risk for patients in whom colonoscopy is generally not indicated, raising serious concerns about their applicability to clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cesare Hassan
- Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy Unit, Nuovo Regina Margherita Hospital, Rome, Italy.
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