Cost Analysis of Liposomal Bupivacaine in TKA

This technical report evaluates the association between liposomal bupivacaine (LB) use and total cost of care among patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in hospital outpatient departments (HOPDs). The study utilizes data from the Premier Healthcare Database, focusing on adults who underwent elective TKA between January 1, 2023, and September 30, 2023. It compares total costs from the index surgical visit through 30 days post-surgery for patients treated with LB versus those without it. The findings indicate that LB use is associated with lower healthcare costs across the entire 30-day episode of care in the matched population. Specifically, in teaching hospitals, LB use resulted in statistically significant reductions in costs exceeding $1500 compared to non-LB use. The report underscores the economic implications of LB as a cost-effective strategy for postoperative pain management, suggesting potential for broader adoption through structured care standardization.