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.

Grafix Cryopreserved Placental Membrane (Osiris Technologies Inc.) for Treatment of Chronic Foot Ulcers in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus

Health Problem: Diabetes can damage blood vessels, compromising blood flow and oxygen circulation. Resulting tissue hypoxia may contribute to failure of even minor wounds to heal. Chronic foot ulcers in people with diabetes may occur when foot injuries, such as cuts, blisters, or sores, develop, worsen, and do not heal. Reasons are multifactorial and may include compromised s…

Botulinum Toxin Treatment for Migraine Headache

Health Problem: Headache is a common disorder affecting more than 45 million individuals in the United States. There are several types of headache, with symptoms that vary with the underlying pathophysiology. Headaches can be primary, such as migraine, cluster, and tension headaches; or secondary to systemic, intracranial, or extracranial causes. Migraine affects 18% of women…

The Early Start Denver Model for Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder

Health Problem: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that presents in childhood and is characterized by persistent deficits in social communication and social interaction; restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities; and clinically significant impairment in social, occupational, or other i…

Intrathecal Opioids for Chronic Noncancer Pain

Health Problem: Chronic pain, or pain persisting > 6 months, is a multifaceted condition with an estimated prevalence of 2% to 40% in adults in the United States. There are numerous etiologies of chronic noncancer pain. Treatment of chronic pain depends on individual and pain-related factors. Common treatments include oral analgesics, injecti…

Hybrid Maze Procedure for Atrial Fibrillation

Health Problem: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a supraventricular, accelerated heart rhythm characterized by uncoordinated atrial activation that leads to inefficient, irregular atrial contraction. According to 2010 data, approximately 2.7 to 6.1 million people in the United States have AF. In both men and women, AF is associated with a signific…