The pulmonary artery catheter: economic aspects.

OBJECTIVE

To review the literature addressing economic issues related to use of the pulmonary artery catheter (PAC).

DATA SOURCE

All pertinent English language articles related to economic analysis of the use of pulmonary artery catheterization were retrieved from 1977 through 1996.

STUDY SELECTION

Articles were chosen for review if an economic analysis related to use of the PAC was studied or reviewed.

DATA EXTRACTION

From the articles selected, information was obtained about economic aspects related to pulmonary artery catheterization.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Inadequate evidence exists to accurately determine if PAC use is truly cost-effective.

CONCLUSION

Widespread use of the PAC has significant economic ramifications. Data regarding cost-effectiveness of the PAC is extremely limited in terms of methodology and scope. Economic impact and cost-effectiveness are moot prior to establishing clinical efficacy.