Laparoscopic colposuspension

Abstract

Background: The laparoscopic approach must be shown to be cost-effective as well as safe and technically effective before being widely adopted. A review of 54 consecutive patients who underwent open and laparoscopic colposuspension is presented and a cost-analysis is performed comparing the two approaches.

Methods: This study was a retrospective controlled review of patient records and accounts of in-hospital costs incurred at a private hospital.

Results: Theater costs were significantly greater in the laparoscopic group but this was balanced by a shorter length of stay and subsequent reduced accommodation cost. There was no difference in the overall in-hospital costs between the two groups.

Conclusion: The laparoscopic surgical approach is safe and effective and by no means more expensive than the open approach. In the future, the laparoscopic approach can only become more cost efficient; techniques will improve and there will be earlier returns to work and, subsequently, greater productivity.