Purpose of Technology: The goal of endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) is to use laser energy to seal off the damaged portions of varicose veins, prevent further varicose vein formation, eliminate associated discomfort, and improve cosmetic appearance. This therapy is intended primarily for the treatment of varicose veins that result from great saphenous vein (GSV), small sapheno…
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.
Comparative Effectiveness Review of Robotically Assisted Hysterectomy
Purpose of Technology: Robotically assisted hysterectomy (RAH) is intended for the minimally invasive removal of the uterus as a treatment for various medical conditions, including benign conditions such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and uterine prolapse. It is also used to treat and stage malignant conditions such as cervical and endometrial cancers.
Rati…
Impella CP (Abiomed) for Use in Adult Patients with Cardiogenic Shock
Cardiogenic shock (CS) is an acute life-threatening condition resulting from inadequate blood circulation due to the inability of the heart (most often the left ventricle) to adequately meet systemic tissue demands for oxygen and nutrients.
Technology Description:
Comparative Effectiveness Review of Topical Antiseptic Products for Antisepsis Prior to Vascular or Epidural Catheter Insertion
Purpose of Technology: The most common skin preparation agents currently used in the United States for antisepsis prior to catheter insertion are products that contain iodophors or chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG).
Rationale: Skin preparation products are used prior to insertion of catheters to quickly eliminate a wide range of microbes and provide a conti…
Propel and Propel Mini Bioabsorbable Steroid-Releasing Sinus Implants for Treatment of Chronic Rhinosinusitis in Adults
Sinusitis is an inflammation of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses that is estimated to affect 13% to 15% of adults in the United States, resulting in more than 30 million annual diagnoses.
Technology Description: The Propel and Propel Mini sinus devices are self-expanding bioabsorbable stents formed of a synthetic polymer (L-lactide-co-glycolide) in a lattice patte…
Comparative Effectiveness Review of Single-Level Artificial Disc Replacement for Cervical Degenerative Disc Disease
Rationale: Total disc replacement (TDR) was developed to relieve pain, restore disc height, and maintain the natural motion of the spine. Developers of artificial cervical discs sought to eliminate the problems associated with anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF).
Technology Description: Patients with cervical degenerative disc disease (DDD) t…
Comparative Effectiveness Review of Paravertebral Block for Prevention of Chronic Pain After Breast Surgery
Purpose of Technology: Patients undergoing breast surgery have a notable risk of developing persistent pain lasting for more than 3 months following the procedure. Paravertebral blocks (PVBs) may be used in breast surgery as part of anesthetic care, and have been linked to reduced acute postoperative pain.
Comparative Effectiveness of Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass and Sleeve Gastrectomy for Treatment of Type II Diabetes: A Review of Reviews
Purpose of Technology: Roux-en-Y gastric bypass is a surgery that reduces the capacity of the stomach and the length of the small intestine through which food travels. Sleeve gastrectomy reduces stomach capacity only. These bariatric surgeries are widely accepted as very effective for weight loss in people with morbid obesit…
Comparative Effectiveness Review of Cryoablation for Salvage Treatment of Recurrent Prostate Cancer Following Radiotherapy
Purpose of Technology: Cryoablation of the prostate gland provides a minimally invasive treatment option for the management of localized prostate cancer. The technique uses percutaneously inserted cryoprobes to freeze and thereby destroy cancerous prostate tissue.
The publication date for this report is June 8, 2017, with a corrigendum issued on July 27, 2017. See Publication History for details. Purpose of Technology: Cryoablation of the prostate gland provides a minimally invasive treatment option for the management of localize…Comparative Effectiveness Review of Cryoablation for Primary Treatment of Localized Prostate Cancer