Abstract
IntroductionIntraoperative molecular analysis for sentinel lymph node (SLN) metastases using the OSNA (one-step nucleic acid amplification) method has been already validated in breast cancer. The authors compared the cost of OSNA versus the conventional postoperative histopathologic evaluation in patients with breast cancer. MethodologyPatients with operable breast cancer and clinically and sonographic negative evaluation of the axilla, and who subsequently were operated on between the 15th of October 2008 and the 15th of December 2009 were included in this retrospective cost-benefit analysis. The SLN was assessed by conventional postoperative histological evaluation in Group 1 (45 patients), and by OSNA in Group 2 (35 patients). The following variables were analysed: age, tumour size, histological type, number of SLNs, biopsy result, duration of surgery, days in hospital, postoperative complications, positive lymph nodes in the case of axillary lymphadectomy, cost per patient, hospitalisation cost, and cost per operation. ResultsThe duration of surgery of the first operation in Group 1 was significantly shorter, but the total time was also higher in this group. The mean hospital stay was longer in Group 1 (P<.001). The mean cost of the hospital stay was higher in Group 1 compared to Group 2 (P<.001), with a mean difference of 199.69€. The mean cost of the surgery was higher in Group 1 (P<.001), with a mean difference of 157.49€. The mean cost per SLN analysis was significantly higher in Group 1, with a mean difference of 162.5€. The cost per patient was significantly higher in Group 1 (P<.005). A mean saving of 439.67€ per patient was achieved by using the OSNA method. ConclusionIntraoperative molecular analysis for SLN metastases using the OSNA method reduces the number of admission days, duration of surgery, and achieves a saving of 439.67€ per patient.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
