Alvimopan: A cost-effective tool to decrease cystectomy length of stay.

Introduction: We sought to evaluate the cost effectiveness of perioperative use of alvimopan in cystectomy and urinary diversion. A recent randomized controlled trial demonstrated the efficacy of alvimopan in reducing postoperative ileus and length of stay in cystectomy; however, a major limitation was the exclusion of epidural analgesia.

Materials And Methods: Eighty-six cystectomy and urinary diversion procedures performed by seven surgeons were analyzed between January 2008 and April 2012.