Cost-Effectiveness of Uterine Artery Embolization and Hysterectomy for Uterine Fibroids

PURPOSE: To compare the cost-effectiveness of uterine artery embolization (UAE) with that of hysterectomy for women with symptomatic uterine fibroids. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The authors developed a decision model to compare the costs and effectiveness of UAE and hysterectomy. In the model, a cohort of women aged 40 years with a diagnosis of uterine fibroids and no desire for future pregnancy was followed up until menopause. The analysis was performed from a societal perspective, including all costs and effects, regardless of who incurs them. Transition probability and quality-of-life estimates were obtained from the literature and a gynecologist, whereas costs (in 1999 U.S. dollars) were estimated by using rates of Medicare reimbursement for hospital costs and physician fees. Sensitivity analyses of key estimates were performed. Results were expressed in costs per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY). RESULTS: UAE was more effective (8.29 vs 8.18 QALYs) and less expensive ($6,916 vs $7,847) than hysterectomy. Cost-effectiveness results, with the exception of quality-of-life data, were robust to changes in most model assumptions. When the quality-of-life adjustment was eliminated, the two procedures were equally effective. CONCLUSION: UAE is a cost-effective alternative to hysterectomy across a wide range of assumptions about the costs and effectiveness of the two procedures. However, the study results were sensitive to changes in quality-of-life values.

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