Differences in the Selection of Health State Utility Values by Sponsorship in Published Cost-Effectiveness Analyses.

Background: Health state utility values (HSUVs) are among the most influential attributes of cost-effectiveness analyses (CEAs). Our objective was to evaluate whether industry-funded studies select systematically different HSUVs as compared with studies without industry funding.

Methods: Among 10 diseases with high disease burden in the United States, we further identified 31 progressive health states.

Prospective Evaluation of the Impact of Side-Holes and Guide-Catheter Disengagement From the Coronary Ostium on Fractional Flow Reserve Measurements.

Background: We prospectively examined the impact of side-holes and guide-catheter disengagement on fractional flow reserve (FFR) measurements.

Methods: Twenty-five patients undergoing clinically indicated FFR measurement for intermediate coronary artery stenosis were enrolled. Four FFR measurements were made in random order during intravenous adenosine infusion with: (a) an engaged side-hole guide catheter; (b) a disengaged side-hole guide catheter; (c) an engaged non-side-hole guide catheter; and (d) disengaged non-side-hole guide catheter.