title: Cost analysis of two implantable narcotic delivery systems.
abstract: This survey compares costs of two commonly utilized implantable narcotic delivery systems. The systems are classified into type-I (exteriorized system using the DuPen epidural catheter) and type-II (implanted system using the Synchromed pump). Costs were analyzed by reviewing actual patient hospital financial service records and Homecare vendor quotations. From the perspective of cost analysis alone, we conclude that savings accrue when patients requiring treatment beyond 3 months duration are managed with a type-II implanted system compared with a type-I system with an external pump.
authors.forename: M D
authors.initials: MD
authors.lastname: Bedder
authors.forename: K
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Burchiel
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Larson
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D015360:Analgesia, Epidural / Q000295:instrumentation; D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D015918:Infusion Pumps, Implantable / Q000145:classification / Q000191:economics*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009294:Narcotics / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D013727:Terminal Care
chemical_list: D009294:Narcotics