Cost minimization analysis of catheter ablation for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation by catheter technology.

Abstract

Compare the 1-year costs of three catheter ablation technologies for the treatment of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF). A decision tree model was developed to estimate 1-year hospital costs associated with an index and potential repeat PAF ablation procedure using the Thermocool® Smarttouch® Catheter(ST), Thermocool SF Catheter (SF) or Arctic Front Advance Cryoballoon(CB). Model parameters were estimated using the results of two recently published studies. The ST resulted in average per-patient savings for combined inpatient and outpatient populations of US$1488 and US$4494 compared with SF and CB, respectively. These cost savings were greater in the inpatient setting. The 1-year expected hospital visit costs for PAF ablation were lower with ST than with SF or CB.