Cost-utility of Routine Cataract Surgery
Author Information
Author(s): Pirjo Räsänen, Kari Krootila, Harri Sintonen, Tiina Leivo, Anna-Maija Koivisto, Olli-Pekka Ryynänen, Marja Blom, Risto P. Roine
Primary Institution: Helsinki University Eye Hospital
Hypothesis
The study aims to evaluate the cost-utility of routine cataract surgery in a real-world setting.
Conclusion
The mean utility gain after routine cataract surgery was relatively small and mostly confined to patients whose both eyes were operated.
Supporting Evidence
- Mean utility score improved statistically significantly only in patients reporting significant or major preoperative seeing problems.
- Cost per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained was €5128 for patients whose both eyes were operated.
- Patients whose first eye had been operated earlier showed a deterioration in HRQoL after surgery.
Takeaway
Cataract surgery helps some people see better, but not everyone feels a big difference afterward, especially if they didn't have serious vision problems before.
Methodology
The study involved a prospective assessment of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) using the 15D questionnaire before and six months after cataract surgery.
Potential Biases
The patient sample included individuals with varying degrees of preoperative seeing problems, which may affect the perceived utility gain.
Limitations
The study may underestimate the true cost per QALY gained due to the exclusion of certain costs and the mixed patient sample.
Participant Demographics
Mean age of participants was 71 years, with 65% being female.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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