Cost-effectiveness analysis of total intravenous vs. inhalation anaesthesia among adults aged ≥ 50 y undergoing major non-cardiac surgery.
Samuel Frempong, Rebecca Kandiyali, James Mason et al.
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In 30 seconds
This randomized controlled trial evaluated the cost-effectiveness of total intravenous versus inhalational anaesthesia in 2507 adults aged 50 and older undergoing major non-cardiac surgery. The study found no significant differences in mean costs or quality-adjusted life years between the two methods, with an incremental cost of -£145 and an incremental quality-adjusted life year of -0.001, indicating comparable economic outcomes.
Key findings
- Mean costs and quality-adjusted life years were similar across total intravenous and inhalational anaesthesia groups.
- Total intravenous anaesthesia had a 56-57% probability of cost-effectiveness at standard willingness-to-pay thresholds.
- Incremental cost was -£145 (95%CI -£1510-£1220) and incremental quality-adjusted life years was -0.001 (95%CI -0.008-0.005).
Why it matters
Understanding the cost-effectiveness of anaesthesia methods is crucial for healthcare resource allocation. This study supports the notion that both anaesthesia techniques are economically equivalent, allowing clinicians to prioritize patient-specific factors and clinical expertise in their decision-making.