title: Cost modeling for alternate routes of administration of opioids for cancer pain.
abstract: The economic considerations relative to neuraxial infusion can be looked at with different types of economic models, including cost-minimization, cost-effectiveness, and cost-benefit analyses. A theoretical predictive model was developed about 2 years ago using a computer spreadsheet and based on four levels of supportive data. The model shows that the breakeven point at which it becomes less expensive to administer opioids with an intrathecal/implanted pump, rather than an epidural/external pump, is between 3 and 6 months after the start of pain management. In addition, the break even point between systemic treatment and spinal delivery with an implanted system is between 1 1/2 and 2 1/2 years from start of pain treatment.
authors.affiliation: Department of Neurosurgery, M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA.
authors.forename: S J
authors.initials: SJ
authors.lastname: Hassenbusch
mesh_terms: D000701:Analgesics, Opioid / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001416:Back Pain / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000191:economics; D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D004333:Drug Administration Routes; D016503:Drug Delivery Systems / Q000191:economics*; D006801:Humans; D007278:Injections, Spinal / Q000191:economics; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000191:economics; D010146:Pain / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000191:economics; D019736:Prostheses and Implants / Q000191:economics
chemical_list: D000701:Analgesics, Opioid