Posters

Modern cost of posterior capsular tear

Poster Details

First Author: R. Davidson UNITED STATES

Co Author(s):    J. Alexander   L. Bonnell   A. Lynch   M. Taravella           

Abstract Details

Purpose:

Posterior capsular tear (PCT) is an uncommon but potentially serious complication of cataract extraction. PCT results in additional postoperative visits, subsequent surgical procedures, and a significant, albeit often short-term, burden on the patient. To date, there is limited data available on the financial burden of PCT on the healthcare system. By reviewing all cases of PCT at our institution, we aimed to characterize the cataract extractions that resulted in PCT and to analyze the cost of PCT to our institution and to the insurance company / payer.

Setting:

University of Colorado School of Medicine Department of Ophthalmology, Aurora, Colorado USA

Methods:

Retrospective review of all PCT's encountered during all cataract extractions performed at the University of Colorado in 2014. Data collected included characteristics of the CE, complications encountered, operating room time used, number of post-operative visits needed, subsequent studies and subsequent procedures needed. Cost calculations were then determined for each of these items so that a final overall cost per case of PCT could be established.

Results:

There were 12 PCT in 1672 cataract extractions (0.72% incidence) 9 cases (75%) were resident/trainee cases. 7 cases (58%) had other mitigating factors such as it being a very dense lens, weak zonules, prior vitrectomy with suspected damage to the posterior capsule. The cost of additional care ranged from $0-$12,379.85. The mean additional cost was $3,076.31 +/- $4,898.63 Standard Deviation

Conclusions:

Most PCTs resulted in at least 1 post-operative complication. In most cases, the PCT resulted in a significant cost burden to both the institution and the payers. Since most PCTs occurred during trainee cases (75%), we suggest that this cost may be offset by investments in resident and fellow training aimed at decreasing surgical complication rates.

Financial Disclosure:

NONE