Abstract
Purpose: :
To perform a comparative cost-effectiveness analysis of Descemet stripping endothelial keratoplasty (DSEK) and penetrating keratoplasty (PKP) for corneal endothelial disease.
Methods: :
This cost-effectiveness analysis was performed from a third party payor perspective over a 5-year period. A model was constructed to compare the costs and utilities associated with DSEK and PKP. Probabilities of outcomes and complications of each of the procedures were calculated based on systematic review of the published literature. Costs of donor tissue preparation, surgery, follow-up, post-operative complications and procedures were considered. Utility values were based on visual acuity outcomes. Sensitivity analyses were performed with two-way analyses of cost, graft failure rates, and glaucoma rates.
Results: :
DSEK and PKP were found to be equally cost-effective with similar utilities and costs.
Conclusions: :
This initial comparative cost-effectiveness analysis of DSEK vs. PKP indicates similar costs of the two procedures for treatment of corneal endothelial disease. Longer term follow-up of DSEK outcomes will provide more accurate information regarding long-term costs of the procedure.
Keywords: cornea: clinical science