MP57-11: The Cost of Reusable Cystoscopy: A Microcosting Evaluation at a U.S. Academic Medical Center
Sunday, May 5, 2024 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM · 2 hr. (US/Central)
304B
Abstract
Information
Full Abstract and Figures
Author Block
Stephen Hassig*, Rochester, NY, Ian K Haislip, Columbia, MD, Emilie Dehlholm-Lambertsen, Copenhagen, Denmark, Rajat Jain, Rochester, NY
Introduction
Flexible cystoscopy is the most common office procedure performed by urologists. In recent years, single-use flexible cystoscopes have become available, offering an alternative to the traditional reusable scope. The most important differentiator between the two is the cost and time associated with reprocessing reusable scopes. These costs can vary significantly based on many variables at a given facility. The aim of this study was to estimate the cost of performing cystoscopy at a mid-volume, U.S. academic medical center.
Methods
Data was collected during a two-week period in November of 2019. Data regarding the acquisition and repair costs of reusable cystoscopes were collected retrospectively. For each reusable cystoscope at the time of this study, all repair costs per scope were totaled and divided by the total number of months in service, then extrapolated across a 1-year horizon. Fixed costs associated with consumable items for reprocessing were identified and quantities of items used were calculated following 6 reprocessing cycles. These were similarly extrapolated. Staff costs were included in reprocessing for time spent in handling of scopes. Capital equipment was depreciated over 5-year useful lifespans. Overhead was included by taking 5-20% of the total cost per use of reusable capital, reprocessing, and repairs. Total cost per use was derived by dividing total annual costs by the annual procedure volume of 1,440.
Results
The cost per use to perform cystoscopy at a U.S. academic medical center with reusable flexible cystoscopes including capital equipment, reprocessing and repairs, and a full breakdown can be found in table 1.
Conclusions
The cost of performing flexible cystoscopy has become an important focus for hospitals and healthcare systems as single-use cystoscopes enter the market, potentially providing a cost-saving and efficient alternative. A 2023 systematic review found that the average total cost per use of performing cystoscopy with reusable scopes amounted to $178.28, which is in line with the findings from this study (especially when considering ever increasing costs). Given the differences in capital, repair and processing costs across institutions, each facility should consider their respective inputs when examining a possible conversion to single-use cystoscopes.
Source Of Funding
Funding for this study was provided by Ambu.
Author Block
Stephen Hassig*, Rochester, NY, Ian K Haislip, Columbia, MD, Emilie Dehlholm-Lambertsen, Copenhagen, Denmark, Rajat Jain, Rochester, NY
Introduction
Flexible cystoscopy is the most common office procedure performed by urologists. In recent years, single-use flexible cystoscopes have become available, offering an alternative to the traditional reusable scope. The most important differentiator between the two is the cost and time associated with reprocessing reusable scopes. These costs can vary significantly based on many variables at a given facility. The aim of this study was to estimate the cost of performing cystoscopy at a mid-volume, U.S. academic medical center.
Methods
Data was collected during a two-week period in November of 2019. Data regarding the acquisition and repair costs of reusable cystoscopes were collected retrospectively. For each reusable cystoscope at the time of this study, all repair costs per scope were totaled and divided by the total number of months in service, then extrapolated across a 1-year horizon. Fixed costs associated with consumable items for reprocessing were identified and quantities of items used were calculated following 6 reprocessing cycles. These were similarly extrapolated. Staff costs were included in reprocessing for time spent in handling of scopes. Capital equipment was depreciated over 5-year useful lifespans. Overhead was included by taking 5-20% of the total cost per use of reusable capital, reprocessing, and repairs. Total cost per use was derived by dividing total annual costs by the annual procedure volume of 1,440.
Results
The cost per use to perform cystoscopy at a U.S. academic medical center with reusable flexible cystoscopes including capital equipment, reprocessing and repairs, and a full breakdown can be found in table 1.
Conclusions
The cost of performing flexible cystoscopy has become an important focus for hospitals and healthcare systems as single-use cystoscopes enter the market, potentially providing a cost-saving and efficient alternative. A 2023 systematic review found that the average total cost per use of performing cystoscopy with reusable scopes amounted to $178.28, which is in line with the findings from this study (especially when considering ever increasing costs). Given the differences in capital, repair and processing costs across institutions, each facility should consider their respective inputs when examining a possible conversion to single-use cystoscopes.
Source Of Funding
Funding for this study was provided by Ambu.