A value-based evaluation of cefazolin and vancomycin for prosthetic joint infection prophylaxis in total hip arthroplasty.

BACKGROUND

The most cost-effective intravenous antibiotic prophylaxis for preventing prosthetic joint infection (PJI) in total hip arthroplasty (THA) has been a matter of debate. The aim of this study was to compare the cost differential between cefazolin and vancomycin as prophylactic options with a particular focus on costs associated with PJI management.

METHODS

Using previously published data on PJI rates associated with cefazolin and vancomycin, we modelled the cost of each prophylactic option. This model included unit prices for each drug obtained from our hospital's pharmacy service, as well as the labor costs associated with the hour-long period required for vancomycin administration. Cost of PJI accounted for the price of a 2-stage septic THA revision procedure. National projections were obtained to account for future THA volume.

RESULTS

The average per-patient cost associated with cefazolin PJI prophylaxis was $1025.59, accounting for a PJI rate of 0.75%. The average per-patient cost associated with vancomycin PJI prophylaxis was $2710.82, accounting for a 1.47% PJI rate. The annual cost difference could amount to $2.4 billion by 2040 given projections of THA incidence.

CONCLUSIONS

The per-patient cost associated with vancomycin PJI prophylaxis is 164% higher than that associated with cefazolin due to increased cost of primary treatment, labor costs associated with prolonged infusion time, and most importantly differential PJI rates (number needed to treat = 1.39). In an era of value-based care, the use of cefazolin has been consistently shown to be the gold standard for THA PJI prophylaxis and is associated with significant cost advantages.