Reuse of disposable laparoscopic instruments: cost analysis.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the cost benefits of reusing disposable laparoscopic instruments.

DESIGN

A cost-analysis study based on a review of laparoscopic and thoracoscopic procedures performed between August 1990 and January 1994, including analysis of disposable instrument use, purchase records, and reprocessing costs for each instrument.

SETTING

The general surgery department of a 461-bed teaching hospital where disposable laparoscopic instruments are routinely reused according to internally validated reprocessing protocols.

METHODS

Laparoscopic and thoracoscopic interventions performed between August 1990 and January 1994 for which the number and types of disposable laparoscopic instruments were standardized.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Reprocessing cost per instrument, the savings realized by reusing disposable laparoscopic instruments and the cost-efficient number of reuses per instrument.

RESULTS

The cost of reprocessing instruments varied from $2.64 (Can) to $4.66 for each disposable laparoscopic instrument. Purchases of 10 commonly reused disposable laparoscopic instruments totalled $183,279, and the total reprocessing cost was estimated at $35,665 for the study period. Not reusing disposable instruments would have cost $527,575 in instrument purchases for the same period. Disposable laparoscopic instruments were reused 1.7 to 68 times each.

CONCLUSIONS

Under carefully monitored conditions and strict guidelines, reuse of disposable laparoscopic and thoracoscopic instruments can be cost-effective.