Intraarterial digital subtraction imaging cost considerations.

In an attempt to quantitate the cost-effectiveness of digital arterial imaging, we compared our real costs for angiographic procedures during a 6-month period with the costs for digital arteriographic imaging after the procedure was well established and accepted by both radiologists and clinicians. This study based on 400 angiograms per year, revealed that use of a digital angiographic unit resulted in an 82% reduction in film costs, a 25% reduction in staffing costs, a 19% reduction in the time required per examination, and a 30% reduction in the time required per run. Thirteen percent more runs were performed with the digital unit because it was more convenient and had a limited field of view. Overall operating cost savings were 43%. If amortized additional capital costs are included, there is a 12% reduction in overall costs. The digital imaging unit provides an immediate cost savings, with no appreciable loss of diagnostic quality. In addition, patient comfort, and perhaps safety, are improved.