An Algorithm to Analyze Cost Heterogeneity using Counterfactual Scenarios in Endovascular versus Open Repair of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: Predicting Costs for Subsequent Patients.

We examined patient-specific predictors of high cost for endovascular (EVAR) and open (OPEN) repair of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). Vascular Study Group of Northern New England data specific to Fletcher Allen Health Care were merged with cost data from the same source. We retrospectively analyzed 389 elective AAA repairs (230 EVAR, 159 OPEN) between 2003 and 2011 to determine clinical characteristics that contribute to membership in the upper quartile of cost (UQC) versus the remaining three quartiles.