Healthcare Resource Utilization, Costs, Clinical Events, and Treatment Patterns in Extreme High-Risk Patients for Cardiovascular Events Undergoing Lipoprotein Apheresis: A German Claims Data Analysis

Abstract

Aim Insights into treatment patterns, clinical and economic burden of patients undergoing Lipoprotein apheresis (LA). 3 cohorts were characterized: newly treated [Cohort A], experienced [B], matched cohort [C, high CV risk without LA]. Method Clinical burden was assessed by cardiovascular-related hospitalizations and procedures. Economic and clinical outcomes were described over a 12-month baseline period up to 3 years after LA initiation. Results Absolute LA cases decreased from 1.7 to 1.1 per 100,000 patients. In Cohort A, rate of major cardiovascular hospitalizations decreased, while annual healthcare expenditure increased. Cohort B had significantly higher costs than C. Conclusion LA may be associated with a reduced frequency of myocardial infarction-related hospitalizations. However, it is expensive. Alternatives are needed to reduce its high economic burden.