Naloxegol versus Alvimopan for Enhancing Postoperative Recovery following Radical Cystectomy for Bladder Cancer

Abstract

Introduction: µ-Opioid-receptor antagonists are a standard component of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) pathways following radical cystectomy (RC) as they reduce ileus and shorten length of stay (LOS). Prior studies have used alvimopan; however, naloxegol is a less expensive medication in the same class. We compared differences in postoperative outcomes between patients receiving alvimopan or naloxegol following RC.

Methods: We retrospectively reviewed all patients undergoing RC over 20 months at an academic center during which standard practice transitioned from using alvimopan to naloxegol, while maintaining all other components of our ERAS pathway. We utilized bivariate comparisons as well as negative binomial and logistic regression to compare return of bowel function, rates of ileus and LOS following RC.

Results: Of 117 eligible patients, 59 (50%) received alvimopan and 58 (50%) received naloxegol. There were no differences in baseline clinical, demographic or perioperative factors. Median postoperative LOS was 6 days in each group (p=0.3). Time to flatus (2 versus 2 days, p=0.2) and ileus (14% versus 17%, p=0.6) were similar between the alvimopan and naloxegol groups, respectively. In multivariable models controlling for patient and surgical factors, µ-opioid antagonist agent was associated with neither LOS nor ileus. Cost difference was -$344.20/day, equivalent to a $2,065.20 savings over a 6-day hospital stay with naloxegol.

Conclusions: In patients undergoing RC managed with a standard ERAS pathway, there were no differences in postoperative recovery based on the use of alvimopan versus naloxegol. Substitution of naloxegol for alvimopan may allow for significant cost savings without compromising outcomes.

Keywords: cost savings; cystectomy; enhanced recovery after surgery; ileus; urinary bladder neoplasms.