AIM: The aim of the study was to conduct a
cost-minimization analysis of
contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) compared to multi-phase
computed tomography (M-CT) as the diagnostic standard for diagnosing incidental
liver lesions. METHODS: Different scenarios of a cost-covering realization of CEUS in the ambulant sector in the general health insurance system of Germany were compared to the current cost situation. The absolute savings potential was estimated using different approaches for the calculation of the incidence of
liver lesions which require further characterization. RESULTS: CEUS was the more
cost-effective method in all scenarios in which CEUS examinations where performed at specialized centers (122.18-186.53 euro) compared to M-CT (223.19 euro). With about 40 000 relevant
liver lesions per year, systematic implementation of CEUS would result in a cost savings of 4 m euro per year. However, the scenario of a cost-covering CEUS examination for all physicians who perform
liver ultrasound would be the most cost-intensive approach (e. g., 407.87 euro at an
average utilization of the
ultrasound machine of 25 %, and a CEUS ratio of 5 %). CONCLUSION: A cost-covering realization of the CEUS method can result in cost savings in the German healthcare system. A centralized approach as proposed by the DEGUM should be targeted.
