This Article Full Text (PDF) References Alert me when this article is cited Alert me if a correction is posted Citation Map Services Email this article to a friend Similar articles in this journal Alert me to new issues of the journal Add to Saved Citations Download to citation manager Request Permissions Request Reprints Add to My Marked Citations Citing Articles Citing Articles via Google Scholar Google Scholar Articles by Konez, O. Articles by Ciaverella, D. P. Search for Related Content Social Bookmarking                   What's this?

Retrospective Cost Analysis of Ultrasound Versus Computed Tomography Guided Nonvascular Invasive Radiologic Procedures at a Community-Based Hospital

A 4-Year Experience

Kenneth J. Nazinitsky, MD

Manish Goyal, MD

Scott A. Kellermeyer, MD

Samuel L. Hissong, MD

David P. Ciaverella, DO

Department of Radiology, Aultman Hospital, Northeastern Ohio Universities, College of Medicine (NEOUCOM), Canton, Ohio.

The study compares the cost analysis of ultrasound versus computed tomography guidance for nonvascular invasive procedures. Ultrasound and computed tomography-guided invasive procedures are performed routinely in all radiology departments. However, in many departments computed tomography guidance is preferred to ultrasound, sometimes without valid medical indication, aside from personal preference or training. In the authors' department, all requests for imaging-guided nonvascular procedures initially are evaluated for the possibility of ultrasound guidance. This retrospective study included 2971 patients who underwent invasive procedures with ultrasound and computed tomography guidance during a 4-year period (1994-1997). Outcomes were compared to those of another community-based hospital in the same area. The cost analysis was made based on Health Care Financing Administration/ Medicare reimbursements. The results show that approximately 10% of patients can be redirected from computed tomography-guided procedures to ultrasound guidance.

Key Words: ultrasound guidance • computed tomrography guidance • biopsy • aspiration • cost • community based

CiteULike    Connotea    Del.icio.us    Digg    Reddit    Technorati    What's this?