Results of cost-effectiveness analysis. The ERCP followed by FDA-recommended reprocessing strategy was the least expensive of the four competing strategies. Both the ERCP with culture and hold and ERCP with EtO sterilization strategies were marginally more effective, but had incremental costs per QALY gained significantly greater than $100,000. The LC with CBDE strategy was dominated by the other strategies, as it was both more costly and slightly less effective.
CBDE = common bile duct exploration; ERCP = endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography; EtO = ethylene oxide; FDA = Food and Drug Administration; LC = laparoscopic cholecystectomy; QALY = quality-adjusted life year.