[Reimbursement for kyphoplasty in the Germann diagnosis-related groups system 2011/2012. Material costs versus treatment costs].
BACKGROUND
The treatment of osteoporotic vertebral fractures by means of kyphoplasty is an accepted and safe procedure.


OBJECTIVE
In Germany the reimbursement for kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty differs greatly. The growing diversity of suppliers and systems makes a comparison possible and necessary. Besides the illustration of kyphoplasty in the German diagnosis-related group (G-DRG) system and the amendments for 2012 we analyzed the procedures and associated costs.


METHODS
Using the example of two manufacturers and different system approaches, both of which can be charged as kyphoplasty, we try to point out the importance of selecting exact comparison parameters. In particular material and treatment costs are compared for both methods.
Klinik für Unfall-, Hand- und Wiederherstellungschirurgie, Universitätsklinikum Gießen-Marburg, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Baldingerstraße, 35043, Gießen-Marburg, Deutschland, akrueger@med.uni-marburg.de.
A
A
Krüger
L
L
Oberkircher
S
S
Ruchholtz
M
M
Wollny
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003953:Diagnosis-Related Groups / Q000191:economics; D005260:Female; D005858:Germany / Q000453:epidemiology; D017048:Health Care Costs / Q000145:classification / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D006801:Humans; D007349:Insurance, Health, Reimbursement / Q000145:classification / Q000191:economics*; D058498:Kyphoplasty / Q000145:classification / Q000191:economics*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D058866:Osteoporotic Fractures / Q000191:economics* / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000628:therapy*; D015995:Prevalence; D016103:Spinal Fractures / Q000191:economics* / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000628:therapy*