Cost-effectiveness of endovascular therapy for acute ischemic stroke.

Though rarely considered in the clinical decision algorithm, issues of cost-effectiveness assume critical importance for the sustainability of a widely used therapy that entails considerable cost and has unproven benefit. Although current data are limited, we review the studies that have demonstrated via modeling that endovascular stroke treatment may generate significant future economic benefits, even if these treatments have a high price and result in relatively small initial reductions in disability. We highlight important considerations that, on the basis of the logistics and protocols of current neuroendovascular practices, should be included in future cost-effectiveness analyses of endovascular therapy for acute ischemic stroke.