Resource utilization and procedure parameters for the Stretta procedure: comparison with endoscopic ultrasonography and colonoscopy.
BACKGROUND
No data are available regarding resource utilization of the Stretta procedure and its impact on endoscopy units in comparison with other endoscopy procedures.


METHODS
This observational cohort study compared the demographic data and procedural parameters for our first 13 cases undergoing the Stretta procedure, with similar endoscopic colonoscopy and ultrasonography (EUS) cases.


RESULTS
The characteristics of the patients were similar among these groups. The patients undergoing the Stretta procedure required significantly more sedative medication than those undergoing colonoscopy or EUS. The Stretta procedure time and recovery time were significantly longer than the colonoscopy procedure time and recovery time. The Stretta procedure time was also significantly longer than the EUS procedure time, but the Stretta recovery time was not significantly longer than the EUS recovery time.


CONCLUSIONS
Although this study is small and not randomized, it provides useful information regarding how endoscopic procedures compare with one another. Furthermore, these findings have implications for determining endoscopy unit staffing, work equivalency, and appropriate reimbursement.
Wolfsen
Herbert C
HC
Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida 32224, USA. pdt@mayo.edu
Hemminger
Lois
L
Stark
Mark E
ME
Achem
Sami R
SR
Loeb
David S
DS
Woodward
Timothy A
TA
DeVault
Kenneth R
KR
D000759:Adjuvants, Anesthesia; D000368:Aged; D015331:Cohort Studies; D003113:Colonoscopy; D016145:Endoscopy, Digestive System; D019160:Endosonography; D005260:Female; D005764:Gastroesophageal Reflux / Q000175:diagnosis; D006295:Health Resources / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008614:Meperidine; D008874:Midazolam; D008875:Middle Aged; D013997:Time Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D000759:Adjuvants, Anesthesia; D008614:Meperidine; D008874:Midazolam