Open access

Research Article

28 January 2019

A 90-day episode-of-care cost analysis of robotic-arm assisted total knee arthroplasty

Authors: Christina L Cool [email protected], David J Jacofsky, Kelly A Seeger, Nipun Sodhi, and Michael A MontAuthor Info & Affiliations

Publication: J. Comp. Eff. Res.

Volume 8, Number 5

https://doi.org/10.2217/cer-2018-0136

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Abstract

Aim: To evaluate 90-day episode-of-care (EOC) costs associated with robotic-arm assisted total knee arthroplasty (rTKA) versus manual TKA (mTKA). Patients & methods: TKA procedures were identified in Medicare 100% data. Accounting for baseline differences, propensity score matching was performed 1:5. 90-day EOC and index costs, lengths-of-stay, discharge disposition and readmission rates were assessed. Results: A total of 519 rTKA and 2595 mTKA were included. Overall 90-day EOC costs were US$2391 less for rTKA (p < 0.0001). Over 90% of patients in both cohorts utilized post-acute services, with rTKA accruing fewer costs than mTKA. Post-acute savings can be attributed to discharge destination. Conclusion: rTKA incurred an overall lower 90-day EOC cost versus mTKA. Savings were driven by fewer readmissions and an economically beneficial discharge destinations.

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