Clinical utility and cost-effectiveness of routine preoperative computed tomography scanning in patients with colon cancer

David C. Mauchley, Dana C. Lynge, Lorrie A. Langdale, Matthias G. Stelzner, Charles N. Mock, Kevin G. Billingsley, Gordon Houston

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

42 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background: The aims of this study were to assess the clinical utility of the practice of routine preoperative CT scanning and to determine its cost-effectiveness in colon cancer patients. Methods: A 6-year database of colon cancer patients treated at a veterans affairs medical was reviewed to determine the influence of preoperative CT scanning on clinical management. Cost analysis involved comparison of the institutional cost of CT scanning with the cost savings provided by avoiding nontherapeutic operations. Results: CT scans were obtained in 130 consecutive patients. CT scans provided information that was used in treatment planning in 43 (33%) patients and definitively altered the mode of treatment in 21 (16%) patients. The practice saved the institution $24,018 over 6 years. Conclusion: Routine preoperative CT scanning definitively alters treatment in a small number of cases and is cost-effective.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)512-517
Number of pages6
JournalAmerican journal of surgery
Volume189
Issue number5 SPEC. ISS.
DOIs
StatePublished - May 2005

Keywords

  • Colon neoplasm
  • Computed
  • Surgery
  • Tomography scanners
  • X-ray

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Surgery

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