To compare two alternative treatments for renal stones, ESWL and surgery, we calculated the cost-efficacy parameter that creates an assessment index for a medical method without having to express the results in economical terms. The cost-efficacy index for ESWL treatments (n. = 50, C/E = 3.395.000) is generally less than that for surgical procedures (n. = 40, C/E = 6.975.000), except for stones with a diameter greater than 2 cm. (n. = 10, C/E = 8.893.000).
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