P1.091. Cost-Effectiveness of Omeprazole for Preventing Esophageal Strictures After Zargar Grade 2b–3a Corrosive Injury

Abstract

Esophageal Cancer: Caustic Ingestion of the Esophagus After the acute phase of corrosive esophageal injury, patients with Zargar grade 2b–3a are at high risk of developing strictures. Preventing stricture-related complications is essential due to their significant impact on patient morbidity and healthcare-related financial burden. This study was a post-hoc economic evaluation conducted alongside a randomized controlled trial with a 4-week follow-up. Adult patients with corrosive esophageal injuries were assigned to receive standard treatment alone or standard treatment plus omeprazole. Costs and clinical outcomes were analyzed from both healthcare provider (hospital) and patient perspectives. Direct medical costs were collected, and the incidence of esophageal stricture was recorded. Cost-effectiveness was assessed by comparing average costs per patient and stricture prevention outcomes between the two treatment groups. Patients receiving omeprazole in addition to standard treatment had lower average costs and a lower incidence of corrosive esophageal strictures compared with those receiving standard treatment alone. From the healthcare provider perspective, the combined regimen resulted in cost savings of 4,642.30 Baht (USD 128.38) per patient. From the patient perspective, additional cost savings of 5,476.60 Baht (USD 151.44) per patient were observed. Omeprazole demonstrated both clinical benefit and economic advantage over standard treatment alone. Omeprazole combined with standard treatment is a cost-saving strategy for preventing esophageal strictures in adult patients with Zargar grade 2b–3a corrosive injuries. This approach may improve patient outcomes while reducing costs for both patients and healthcare providers, supporting its adoption in clinical practice and healthcare policy.