SCS for CRPS: A Review of Cost-Effectiveness Models.

PURPOSEOF REVIEW: The provision of a review of current literature on the cost-effectiveness of employing SCS in the treatment of CRPS.

RECENT FINDINGS: Four studies were included in this review, with authorship in the United States, Canada, Europe, and Australia. Each study individually supported the cost-effectiveness of SCS in the treatment of CRPS, with the incremental cost of one quality-adjusted life year found to be AUD 2,321 - USD 22,084, all below a willingness to pay estimated at USD 50,000. One of the four studies was rated American Academy of Neurology (AAN) Grade II, three of the four studies were rated AAN Grade III, and an overall Class C evaluation was assigned to this evidence. SCS can be cost-effective in the treatment of patients with CRPS when considering a time horizon of at least ten years. Current evidence, however, remains weak and less invasive options remain first-line.