Financial implications of single-use versus multi-use instruments in minimally invasive surgical procedures: a comprehensive review - Scorecard - MDSpire

Financial implications of single-use versus multi-use instruments in minimally invasive surgical procedures: a comprehensive review

  • By

  • Pieter J. W. Greve

  • Masie Rahimi

  • Freek Daams

  • Jan Willem M. Greve

  • Jaap H. Bonjer

  • Tim Horeman

  • Marlies P. Schijven

  • April 22, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Scorecard: Financial implications of single-use versus multi-use instruments in minimally invasive surgical procedures: a comprehensive review

At a Glance

CategoryDetail
ConditionMinimally invasive surgical procedures
Key MechanismsComparison of disposable versus reusable surgical instruments
Target PopulationPatients undergoing minimally invasive surgeries
Care SettingHigh-volume surgical centers

Key Highlights

  • Disposable instruments have higher per-unit costs but reduce cross-contamination risk.
  • Reusable instruments can be more cost-effective over time despite higher initial costs.
  • Environmental impact of disposable instruments contributes significantly to medical waste.
  • Need for systematic review to assess economic and environmental impacts of surgical instruments.
  • Limited comprehensive synthesis of evidence comparing disposable and reusable instruments.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

  • Assess total cost of operations considering instrument choice.

Management

  • Evaluate both economic and environmental impacts when selecting surgical instruments.

Monitoring & Follow-up

  • Monitor costs associated with sterilization and waste management.

Risks

  • Consider risks of cross-contamination with disposable instruments.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Patients undergoing robotic, laparoscopic, or endoscopic procedures

Instrument choice can influence intraoperative and postoperative outcomes.

Clinical Best Practices

  • Utilize a systematic approach to evaluate instrument costs and environmental impact.
  • Incorporate findings from comprehensive reviews into surgical practice guidelines.

References

Original Source(s)

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