Is chromosome testing of the second miscarriage cost saving? A decision analysis of selective versus universal recurrent pregnancy loss evaluation.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the cost of selective recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) evaluation, which is defined as RPL evaluation if the second miscarriage is euploid, versus universal RPL evaluation, which is defined as RPL evaluation after the second miscarriage. Traditionally, an RPL evaluation is instituted after the third miscarriage. However, recent studies suggest evaluation after the second miscarriage, which dramatically increases health care costs. Alternatively, chromosome testing of the second miscarriage, to determine whether an RPL evaluation is required, has been proposed.

DESIGN

Decision-analytic model.

SETTING

Academic medical center.

PATIENT(S): Couples experiencing a second miscarriage of less than 10 weeks size.

INTERVENTION(S): Selective versus universal RPL evaluation after the second miscarriage.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S): Estimated cost for selective versus universal RPL evaluation.

RESULT(S): The estimated cost of selective RPL evaluation after the second miscarriage was $3,352, versus $4,507 for universal RPL evaluation, resulting in a cost savings of $1,155. With stratification by maternal age groups, selective RPL evaluation resulted in increased cost savings with advancing maternal age groups.

CONCLUSION(S): Selective RPL evaluation, which is based upon chromosome testing of the second miscarriage, is a cost-saving strategy for couples with RPL when compared with universal RPL evaluation. With advancing maternal age groups, the cost savings increased.