Cost-Effectiveness of Preoperative Screening for Staphylococcus aureus
Author Information
Author(s): Wassenberg Marjan W. M., de Wit G. Ardine, Bonten Marc J. M.
Primary Institution: University Medical Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands
Hypothesis
How does the cost-effectiveness of preoperative screening for S. aureus carriage vary with different screening scenarios?
Conclusion
Preoperative screening and eradication of S. aureus carriage saves both life years and medical costs, with treating all patients without screening being the most cost-effective strategy.
Supporting Evidence
- Treating all patients without screening saves €7339 per life year gained.
- Identified S. aureus carriers treated with mupirocin and chlorhexidine had significant reductions in infections.
- Sensitivity analysis showed outcomes are affected by the sensitivity of the screening test.
Takeaway
Before surgery, checking for a germ called S. aureus and treating those who have it can save lives and money, but treating everyone without checking is even better.
Methodology
A cost-effectiveness analysis comparing different preoperative screening scenarios for S. aureus carriage.
Potential Biases
Assumptions made regarding infection rates and treatment efficacy may introduce bias.
Limitations
The analysis was limited to deep-seated infections and did not account for indirect costs or the effects on superficial infections.
Participant Demographics
Patients undergoing prosthetic joint and cardiopulmonary surgeries, with an average age of 66 years.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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