Cost Analysis of Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection for the Treatment of Colorectal Lesions in China

Abstract

Aim. The aim of the study was to evaluate costs associated with colonic endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for treatment of colorectal cancer. Methods. The study is a retrospective analysis of data on 395 patients treated by colonic ESD. Results. The operation, consumable items, and medication accounted for 71% of the total costs for colonic ESD treatment. Medication and consumable items’ costs were higher if lesions occurred in the transverse colon and right hemicolon compared to the left hemicolon. Medication, consumable items, and total costs were higher for larger lesions. Lesion numbers and carcinoma were associated with higher medication, consumable items, operation, and total costs. Positive surgical margins and complications of hemorrhage or perforation were positively correlated with higher costs for medication, consumable items, and total costs. Conclusion. Labor costs for doctors and nurses remain low in China. Costs for medication and consumable items were higher for treatment involving the transverse colon or right hemicolon (vs. the left hemicolon), larger lesions, carcinoma, and a positive surgical margin. A benchmark cost estimate for ESD treatment including 4 days of postoperative hospitalization was determined to be approximately 5400 USD.