International journal of technology assessment in health care
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Int J Technol Assess Health Care · Jul 2013
Collaboration in health technology assessment (EUnetHTA joint action, 2010-2012): four case studies.
The aim of this study was to present the first four collaborative health technology assessment (HTA) processes on health technologies of different types and life cycles targeted toward diverse HTA users and facilitators, as well as the barriers of these collaborations. ⋯ Timely and efficient, different collaborative HTA processes on relative efficacy/effectiveness and safety on different types and life cycles of health technologies, targeted toward diverse HTA users in Europe are possible. There are still barriers to overcome.
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Int J Technol Assess Health Care · Jul 2013
Review Meta AnalysisEpidural steroid injection therapy for low back pain: a meta-analysis.
The aim of this study was to systematically assess the long-term (≥ 6 months) benefits of epidural steroid injection therapies for patients with low back pain. ⋯ A long-term benefit of epidural steroid injections for low back pain was not suggested at 6 months or longer. Introduction of selection bias in the majority of injection studies seems apparent. Baseline adjustment is essential when we evaluate pain as a main outcome of injection therapy.
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Int J Technol Assess Health Care · Jul 2013
Comparative StudyCost-effectiveness of continuous-flow left ventricular assist devices.
Mechanical circulatory support through left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) improves survival and quality of life for patients with end-stage heart failure who are ineligible for cardiac transplantation. Our aim was to calculate the cost-effectiveness of continuous-flow LVADs. ⋯ Although LVAD destination therapy improves survival and quality of life, it remains a relatively expensive intervention which renders the reimbursement of this therapy questionable.