Cost-utility analysis of vagus nerve stimulators for adults with medically refractory epilepsy

Abstract

Introduction: The cost-utility of vagus nerve stimulator (VNS) devices for medically refractory epilepsy has yet to be estimated. Methods: Using a meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials of VNS, we estimate that six people require implantation in order for one person to experience a 50% reduction in seizure frequency. Costs averted from improved epilepsy control were ascertained from published literature. Values for health states were obtained from a series of 42 seizure clinic attenders using time trade-off techniques and the EQ-5D health status instrument. The cost per quality adjusted life year gained was estimated and the values obtained were tested in a sensitivity analysis. Results: Improved epilepsy control averted, on average, £745 health care costs per annum. People with epilepsy had great difficulty performing the time trade-off experiment, but those who managed to complete the task valued a 50% reduction in their own seizure frequency at 0.285 units. For a programme of six implants, the baseline model estimated the cost per quality adjusted life year gained at £28 849. The most favourable estimate was equal to £4785 per quality adjusted life year gained, assuming that the number needed to treat was similar to published series in which one response was obtained for every three implants. The least favourable estimate was equal to £63 000 per quality adjusted life year gained, when EQ-5D utility values were used. The cost per quality adjusted life year gained was not sensitive to changes in length of stay, nor complication rates, but was significantly influenced by cost of device and device battery life expectancy. Conclusion: There is not a strong economic argument against a programme of VNS implantation, although care should be taken to try and identify and treat those most likely to benefit.