The cost of hydrocephalus: a cost-effectiveness model for evaluating surgical techniques

Abstract

In BriefThe authors analyzed the costs associated with the three different procedures used to treat hydrocephalus in the pediatric population. They believe this study highlights the importance of patient-specific treatment decisions that are based on etiology and previous intervention. The patient-specific medical characteristics are a driving force in the cost of care.

Keywords: CPC = choroid plexus cauterization; CSF = cerebrospinal fluid; CSF diversion; DALY = disability-adjusted life year; ETV = endoscopic third ventriculostomy; ICER = incremental cost-effectiveness ratio; NICU = neonatal intensive care unit; PHH = posthemorrhagic hydrocephalus; QALY = quality-adjusted life year; TCH = total costs of hospitalization; VP = ventriculoperitoneal; VPS = VP shunting; choroid plexus cauterization; cost-effectiveness; endoscopic third ventriculostomy; hydrocephalus; ventriculoperitoneal shunting.