Cranial computed tomography: An evaluation of cost effectiveness.

The impact of cranial computed tomography (CCT) on the cost effectiveness of a neurodiagnostic work-up was evaluated. With the use of CCT, 170 air studies and 171 angiographic procedures were made unnecessary in the 444 patients reviewed. Admission was not necessary in 58% of the outpatients examined and the hospital stay was shortened significantly for inpatients. Even considering the cost of the examination and the few extra investigations generated, a single CCT unit can effect savings of up to $2,000,000 per year.