A cost analysis of bone morphogenetic protein versus autogenous iliac crest bone graft in single-level anterior lumbar fusion.

An economic model was developed to compare costs of stand-alone anterior lumbar interbody fusion with recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein 2 on an absorbable collagen sponge versus autogenous iliac crest bone graft in a tapered cylindrical cage or a threaded cortical bone dowel. The economic model was developed from clinical trial data, peer-reviewed literature, and clinical expert opinion. The upfront price of bone morphogenetic protein (3380 dollars) is likely to be offset to a significant extent by reductions in the use of other medical resources, particularly if costs incurred during the 2 year period following the index hospitalization are taken into account.