Cost-effectiveness of duplex ultrasound surveillance in spinal cord injury

Objective: To determine cost-effectiveness of surveillance with duplex ultrasound for thromboembolic disease in individuals with acute traumatic spinal cord injury at admission to rehabilitation. Design: In this retrospective sequential case series study, individuals with traumatic spinal cord injury admitted to our rehabilitation facility between July 1, 1988, and December 31, 1998, were identified. Cost at our institution for treatment of thromboembolic disease was tabulated in 20012002 dollar amounts. Using this cost information, in a statistical model founded on available medical evidence, analysis for cost-effectiveness was then performed. Results: A total of 369 subjects met inclusion criteria. Based on the statistical model, the cost and estimated mortality from thromboembolic disease per subject when performing admission duplex ultrasounds was $449.28 and 0.016%, respectively. The estimated total cost per subject when not performing admission duplex ultrasounds was $136.29, with predicted mortality of 0.524% due to thromboembolic disease. Therefore, cost of one life saved when performing admission duplex ultrasound surveillance is calculated to be $61,542, with cost per life year gained between $1193 and $9050, depending on age at time of injury and severity of injury. Conclusion: Duplex ultrasound is a cost-effective tool for deep venous thrombosis surveillance in individuals with acute traumatic spinal cord injury admitted to rehabilitation programs.