The cost-effectiveness of 10 selected applications in minimally invasive therapy

In this article, evidence of effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the following procedures is reviewed: (1) laser treatment of bladder tumors; (2) extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy and percutaneous nephrolithotomy; (3) laparoscopic treatment of endometriosis; (4) laparoscopic removal of ovarian cysts; (5) laparoscopic cholecystectomy; (6)...

Diffusion of minimally invasive therapy in Europe

This paper considers the diffusion of the 10 cases presented in this issue. Most of the cases have diffused relatively slowly. This slow diffusion can be explained by a number of factors, including budgetary restraints, financial incentives, physician conservatism, and lack of appropriate training. A consistent thread in the cases is the...

Implications of minimally invasive therapy

The field of minimally invasive therapy (MIT) raises many important issues for the future of health care. It seems inevitable that MIT will replace much conventional surgery. This trend is good for society and good for patients. The health care system, however, may find the change disruptive. The need for hospital beds will shrink. Day surgery...