Abstract
Background
Average costs associated with common procedures can vary by surgeon without a corresponding
variation in outcome or case complexity.
Methods
De-identified cost and equipment utilization data were collected from our hospital
for elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy performed by 17 different surgeons over
a 6-month period. A group of surgeons used this data to design a standardized equipment
pick list that became optional (not mandated) for laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Cost
and consumable surgical supply utilization data were collected for six months prior
to and following the creation of the standardized pick-list.
Results
280 elective laparoscopic cholecystectomies were performed during the study interval.
In the 6 months after standardized pick list creation, the cost of disposable supplies
utilized per case decreased by 32%.
Conclusions
Surgical cost savings can be achieved with standardized procedure pick lists and attention
to the cost of consumable surgical supplies.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: June 29, 2017
Accepted:
June 13,
2017
Received in revised form:
June 8,
2017
Received:
May 23,
2017
Identification
Copyright
© 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
