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  • Title: Impact of stereotaxic core breast biopsy on cost of diagnosis.
    Author: Liberman L, Fahs MC, Dershaw DD, Bonaccio E, Abramson AF, Cohen MA, Hann LE.
    Journal: Radiology; 1995 Jun; 195(3):633-7. PubMed ID: 7753986.
    Abstract:
    PURPOSE: To determine the frequency with which stereotaxic core biopsy of the breast obviated diagnostic surgical biopsy and to estimate the savings in cost of diagnosis with this procedure. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Stereotaxic core biopsy of 182 nonpalpable, mammographically evident lesions was performed, and data from clinical follow-up were obtained. Savings in cost were assessed by using national Medicare reimbursement data and a relative value system based on national physician reviews (Relative Values for Physicians [RVP]). RESULTS: Stereotaxic core biopsy replaced a surgical procedure in 140 of 182 patients. The mean adjusted direct savings in cost per stereotaxic core biopsy were $893 (Medicare) or $1,491 (RVP). Use of stereotaxic core biopsy decreased the cost of diagnosis by 52% (RVP) or 55% (Medicare). CONCLUSION: Stereotaxic core biopsy obviated surgical biopsy for most nonpalpable lesions sampled, resulting in a greater than 50% reduction in biopsy costs. If these results were generalizable to the national level, annual savings would approach $200 million.
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