Surgeon Autonomy and Implant Choice

Abstract

A multitude of factors influence implant choice in total joint replacement surgeries, including surgeon choice. Attempts at limiting health care costs by restricting implant choice have become commonplace. A spectrum of strategies exists including price transparency, patient demand matching, capitation pricing, and limited vendor agreements. The benefits and drawbacks of these various strategies in optimizing costs must be considered along with physician autonomy and independence in performing the surgeries.

Keywords: Capitation pricing; Implant choice; Price transparency; Surgeon autonomy.