RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Cost Analysis of PET and Comprehensive Lifestyle Modification for the Reversal of Atherosclerosis JF Journal of Nuclear Medicine JO J Nucl Med FD Society of Nuclear Medicine SP 80 OP 87 DO 10.2967/jnumed.113.119511 VO 55 IS 1 A1 Rigoberto I. Delgado A1 J. Michael Swint A1 David R. Lairson A1 Nils P. Johnson A1 K. Lance Gould A1 Stefano Sdringola YR 2014 UL http://jnm.snmjournals.org/content/55/1/80.abstract AB We present a preliminary cost analysis of a combination intervention using PET and comprehensive lifestyle modification to reverse atherosclerosis. With a sensitivity of 92%–95% and specificity of 85%–95%, PET is an essential tool for high-precision diagnosis of coronary artery disease, accurately guiding optimal treatment for both symptomatic and asymptomatic patients. PET imaging provides a powerful visual and educational aid for helping patients identify and adopt appropriate treatments. However, little is known about the operational cost of using the technology for this purpose. Methods: The analysis was done in the context of the Century Health Study for Cardiovascular Medicine (Century Trial), a 1,300-patient, randomized study combining PET imaging with lifestyle changes. Our methodology included a microcosting and time study focusing on estimating average direct and indirect costs. Results: The total cost of the Century Trial in present-value terms is $9.2 million, which is equal to $7,058 per patient. Sensitivity analysis indicates that the present value of total costs is likely to range between $8.8 and $9.7 million, which is equivalent to $6,655–$7,606 per patient. Conclusion: The clinical relevance of the Century Trial is significant since it is, to our knowledge, the first randomized controlled trial to combine high-precision imaging with lifestyle strategies. The Century Trial is in its second year of a 5-y protocol, and we present preliminary findings. The results of this cost study, however, provide policy makers with an early estimate of the costs of implementing, at large scale, a combined intervention such as the Century Trial. Further, we believe that imaging-guided lifestyle management may have considerable potential for improving outcomes and reducing health-care costs by eliminating unnecessary invasive procedures.