New and emerging health technology reports
Recent publications from CCOHTA and other HTA agencies
CCOHTA is one of many agencies involved in the assessment of new and emerging health technologies, which can also include “older” technologies that have not yet been used extensively. As part of our “horizon scanning,” we check the web sites of other HTA agencies for recent assessments that may be of interest to Canadian health care decision makers. Unless otherwise stated, these publications are available without cost at the web sites shown.
Lynda Jobin, CCOHTA's Program Administration Manager, HTA Directorate, scans a Technology Report.
Agence d’évaluation des technologies et des modes d’intervention en santé (AETMIS)
Comparison of the insulin pump and multiple daily insulin injections in intensive therapy for type 1 diabetes
Insulin pumps offer an alternative to multiple daily insulin injections for some individuals with type 1 diabetes. This report analyses the safety, clinical and cost-effectiveness of insulin pumps. Available: http://www.aetmis.gouv.qc.ca/fr/ publications/scientifiques/diabete/ 2004_07_en.pdf
Alberta Heritage Foundation for Medical Research (AHFMR)
Cost estimation of point of care B-type natriuretic peptide for the diagnosis of heart failure in the emergency department: application to Alberta
This report assesses the possible cost implications of using B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) blood testing in the diagnosis of congestive heart failure. Available: http://www.ahfmr.ab.ca/publications/docs/HTA-IP-25.pdf
Australia and New Zealand Horizon Scanning Network
Combined CT and PET scanner for carcinomas
This report assesses the current evidence on using combined positron emission tomography and computed tomography (PET-CT) units in the diagnosis of cancers of the thorax, abdomen, head and neck. Available: http://www.horizonscanning.gov.au/reports/ctpet.pdf
Blue Cross Blue Shield Technology Evaluation Centre
Gene expression profiling for managing breast cancer treatment
Genetic markers may identify women with node-negative breast cancer who would benefit from adjuvant chemotherapy – potentially allowing many women to avoid unnecessary chemotherapy treatments. However, the available evidence does not yet show the benefit of these tests in patient management or in improving health outcomes. Available: http://www.bcbs.com/tec/vol20/20_03.htm
Canadian Coordinating Office for Health Technology Assessment (CCOHTA)
Minimally invasive hip resurfacing
Metal-on-metal hip resurfacing is an emerging alternative to total hip replacement for younger, more active patients with degenerative hip disease. This bulletin explores the potential advantages and disadvantages of using minimal incisions and new techniques in this surgical procedure. Available: https://www.ccohta.ca/publications/pdf/353_mi_hip_resurfacing_cetap_e.pdf
Portable home hemodialysis
The number of Canadians with kidney failure is increasing, as are the costs associated with treating patients with this condition. Home hemodialysis offers a potentially cost-effective alternative to hospital-based dialysis, and one that may improve both clinical outcomes and quality of life for many patients. Available: https://www.ccohta.ca/publications/pdf/152_No25_Home_dialysis_etech_e.pdf
MRI-guided focused ultrasound for treatment of uterine fibroids
Uterine fibroids are a common health condition in pre-menopausal women and several new treatments have recently become available. Evidence on the effectiveness of using high-intensity focused ultrasound to reduce uterine fibroids is summarized in this bulletin. Available: https://www.ccohta.ca/publications/pdf/361_mri_cetap_e.pdf
Ontario Medical Advisory Secretariat
Balloon kyphoplasty
Balloon kyphoplasty is a new treatment for vertebral compression fractures commonly caused by osteoporosis. The procedure appears to offer significant clinical advantages compared with alternative treatments. Available: http://www.health.gov.on.ca/english/providers/program/mas/reviews/review_kypho_1204.html