[Cost-benefit calculation of kyphoplasty in osteoporotic spine fractures].

Background: Kyphoplasty is an established procedure for the treatment of vertebral fractures secondary to osteoporosis. It leads to correction of kyphosis as well as significant pain reduction. However, the material costs of 53% are very expensive. Is kyphoplasty cost effective?

Method: We performed a cost analysis from patient presentation until discharge. Personnel costs as well as time expenditure were measured exactly, and total costs per case were calculated.

Results: In 2009, 118 patients underwent single level kyphoplasty. The average hospital stay was 6 days. The total reimbursement per patient was 6189.77 EUR. Material expenses were 3134.99 EUR (53%) and personnel 1552.86 EUR (26%). Personnel costs were allotted according to physician (8 h 52 min = 551.93 EUR), nursing (20 h 9 min = 629.69 EUR), and medical technician (11 h 15 min = 371.24 EUR) costs. The total cost per patient was 5868.23 EUR. DRG reimbursement was 6189.77 €, yielding an average revenue of 321.54 EUR.