title: Cost-benefit and cost-effective analysis in surgery.
abstract: Cost-benefit analysis and cost-effective analysis are formal analytical methods to provide a rational, objective means of comparing total costs with total benefits or of comparing effects in the selection of competing programs for financial support. The use of these techniques in the medical field is a relatively recent development and can aid in future cost containment.
mesh_terms: D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis / Q000379:methods*; D003657:Decision Making; D003695:Delivery of Health Care / Q000191:economics; D006801:Humans; D013514:Surgical Procedures, Operative / Q000191:economics*