Zeitschrift für Orthopädie und Unfallchirurgie
-
Comparative Study
[Revenue and losses with vertebral augmentation under the G-DRG system 2012 - a comparison of supply costs in the context of vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty].
If clearly indicated and implemented, augmentations of vertebral bodies with cement are standardized, safe and low-risk procedures. However, the multiplicity of providers and systems are today more varied than ever. At present, the systems differ starkly from one another not only in specifications, possible applications and extensions of indications, but they are also extremely variable in price. Publications have shown that in times of medical-economic change, vertebral augmentations make sense not only medically, but also in terms of economics and the national economy. Our analysis targets the question of how insurance costs with vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty affect profit margins per G-DRG (German Diagnosis Related Groups) in consideration of the different system approaches of the providers. ⋯ Against the background of the increasing economization of the health care system, it should be emphasized once more that the decision for a therapy or a system based on medical reasons should only be made by the treating physician. The vertebroplasty could not be performed at a profit in our analysis, despite comparatively low material costs. A shortfall between -197.53 € and -466.30 € was determined. The comparatively higher material costs of the kyphoplasty make comparisons important. The results of our investigation also show that supposedly inexpensive purchases of materials are not automatically a favorable alternative. In addition, the kyphoplasty techniques currently available on the market are not necessarily comparable. According to our investigation, profits of between 196.03 € and 577.50 € are to be realized in the selection of vertebral augmentation systems based on purely economic considerations. The results of our analysis show that the pure comparison of figures of the average material costs of a G-DRG and the material price distort the picture. A calculation of the profit margin on the basis of costs of care per vertebral body is more definitive.
-
The incidence of pelvic ring fractures in elderly patients increases continuously. Several studies showed that the complexity of injury is often underestimated and a fracture of the posterior pelvic ring not visible with conventional X-rays. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of routine CT on incidence, classification of and therapy for pelvic ring fractures in patients aged over 65 years. ⋯ A low energy trauma is the major cause of injury for patients of an age over 65 years with a pelvic ring fracture. With the routine CT examination type B fractures and isolated sacrum fractures are seen more often than expected and resulting in a change of treatment procedures.
-
Clinical Trial
[Long-term efficacy and safety of balloon kyphoplasty for treatment of osteoporotic vertebral fractures].
The aim of the evaluation of treatment protocols was an extension of the documentation regarding efficacy, duration of action and safety of balloon kyphoplasty. In addition, the data analysis should be used to clarify whether differences arise concerning the treatment success, depending on the number and/or position of the augmented vertebral bodies. ⋯ Balloon kyphoplasty was proven to be a safe and effective procedure. Thus, the balloon kyphoplasty in carefully selected patients can yield better results than a non-invasive conservative treatment. It contributes decisively a better quality of life for the operated patients and diminishes the risks of long-lasting treatment with drugs.