Health Problem: Cancer within the abdominal cavity sometimes occurs as sarcoma (cancer affecting mesodermal tissue, e.g., connective tissue). Sarcomas within the abdominal cavity might be secondary tumors that have spread from the site of origin or they might represent primary tumor in the form of retroperitoneal sarcoma. Abdominal sarcomas a…
Health Technology Assessments
Health Technology Assessments (HTAs) are a comprehensive systematic review and critical analysis of available evidence for A SINGLE medical technology for which there are several published clinical trials and a substantial body of evidence. This report details an entire technology class for which there are one or more indications or patient populations in use.
Our analysts evaluate clinical trial data, along with information regarding safety issues, coverage policies from the private and public sectors, regulatory approvals, consensus statements, and an overall projection of the potential clinical efficacy and economic impact of the technology. Reports are reviewed annually up to 5 years post publication to determine if there is new literature or evidence that would impact a change in rating and warrant an updated report.
Wide-Area Transepithelial Sampling Biopsy for the Detection of Barrett’s Esophagus or Esophageal Dysplasia
Health Problem: Approximately 20% of the U.S. population is affected by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Persistent GERD may lead to esophageal damage and may precede other serious conditions, including Barrett’s esophagus, a precancerous condition that can proceed to potentially lethal esophageal adenocarcinoma. Patients who have Barr…
Comparative Effectiveness Review of Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy for Treatment of Esophageal Achalasia
Health Problem: Esophageal achalasia (EA) is an uncommon motility disorder of unknown etiology that is characterized by increased lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure and esophageal aperistalsis. Treatment for EA includes both conservative treatment options, such as pharmaceutical therapies or botulinum toxin injection, and invasive opti…
Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy for Treatment of Esophageal Achalasia
Health Problem: Esophageal achalasia (EA) is an uncommon motility disorder of unknown etiology that is characterized by increased lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure and esophageal aperistalsis. Treatment for EA includes both conservative treatment options, such as pharmaceutical therapies or botulinum toxin injection, and invasive opti…
Colon Capsule Endoscopy for Colorectal Cancer Screening, Diagnosis, and Surveillance
Health Problem: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second leading cause of cancer death in men and the third in women. Although screening for CRC has been found to reduce CRC mortality, many patients do not undergo the recommended screening.
Technology Description: Colon capsule endoscopy…
Cold Compression Therapy for Patients Undergoing Orthopedic Procedures to Major Joints (Other than Knee)
Health Problem: Acute postoperative pain and swelling is common following orthopedic procedures. Inadequately controlled pain negatively affects quality of life and recovery of function and may result in an increase in morbidity, recovery time, opioid use, and risk of complications or persistent postsurgical pain.
Human Amniotic Membrane Injections for Treatment of Chronic Plantar Fasciitis
Health Problem: Plantar fasciitis (PF) is a progressive degenerative disorder of the plantar fascia, a fibrous band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot that connects the heel bone to each of the toes.
Technology Description: Developments in how amniotic tissue is prepared …
Deep Brain Stimulation of the Anterior Nucleus of the Thalamus for Treatment of Refractory Epilepsy
Health Problem: Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological disorders in the United States and has a prevalence of approximately 3 million adults and 470,000 children. Management generally involves treatment with antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), but for approximately 30% of patients, seizures will remain uncontrolled by medical therapy. In the…
Transcutaneous Bone–Anchored Hearing Aids
Health Problem: In the United States, it is estimated that 48 million adults have some type of hearing loss. Hearing loss can be broadly classified as sensorineural (inner ear), conductive (external and middle ear), or mixed.
Technology Description: Transcutaneous bone–anchored hearing…
Esketamine (Spravato) for Treatment Resistant Major Depressive Disorder
Health Problem: Major depressive disorder (MDD), a serious and life-threatening condition, is one of the most common mental disorders in the United States and a leading cause of disability worldwide. MDD is a chronic disease associated with high rates of morbidity and excess mortality. Approximately 30% to 40% of patients fail to respond to f…