To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of magnetic seeds versus guidewires for breast cancer localization in a health economic analysis of a pragmatic randomized controlled trial (RCT).
Key Findings:
Unadjusted costs: guidewire €3337 vs. magnetic seed €3274; no significant difference (P = 0.599).
Adjusted costs: guidewire €3514 vs. magnetic seed €3123; significant cost reduction of €391 (P = 0.002).
Magnetic seed associated with shorter localization and operating times, leading to overall cost containment.
Interpretation:
Despite the higher initial cost of magnetic seeds, their use resulted in lower overall costs due to efficiencies in the surgical process, such as reduced localization and operating times.
Limitations:
Study conducted in a single healthcare system, which may limit generalizability and applicability to other settings.
Costs may vary in different healthcare settings, potentially affecting the findings.
Conclusion:
Magnetic seeds provide a cost-effective alternative to guidewires for breast cancer localization, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing costs, which is significant for clinical practice.
