Moreover, this contrast-enhanced form of diagnostic imaging can help avoid unnecessary operations. The analysis compared three strategies for the diagnostic imaging of colorectal cancer patients with suspected metastases.
Dr. Christoph Zech from the Institute of Clinical Research at the University Hospital Munich, stated: “The results of this evaluation have shown that it is important when assessing healthcare costs not to compare the primary costs of a diagnostic measure alone, but in particular to also take the follow-up costs into account.” More accurate diagnostic procedures could lead to better patient outcome and cost savings by avoiding unnecessary treatments.
“We are convinced that precise diagnosis using Primovist, which was specifically developed for the diagnosis of liver lesions, not only makes it easier for physicians to make their therapy decisions, but also helps to reduce follow-up costs,” says Dr Christiane Pering, Head of Global Medical Affairs at Bayer Schering Pharma’s Diagnostic Imaging Business Unit. “This is why we will shortly be starting a randomized multicenter clinical study to examine, in the same patient group the health economics of the three compared imaging procedures when they are used in practice.”