MedTech-related health technology assessments from NIHR in May 2023

The National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) funds valuable independent research for health and social care decision-makers in England. Reports from the Health Technology Assessment (HTA) Programme are published in the NIHR HTA Journal and inform NICE guidance.

In May 2023, two MedTech-related assessments were published in the NIHR HTA Journal:

• The clinical and cost-effectiveness of endoscopic bipolar radiofrequency ablation for the treatment of malignant biliary obstruction was assessed in a systematic review. It was concluded that primary radiofrequency ablation increases survival and is likely to be cost-effective. The evidence for the impact of secondary radiofrequency ablation on survival and quality of life is limited. There was a lack of robust clinical effectiveness data, so more information is needed for this indication;
• An assessment of mortality impact, risks, and benefits of general population screening for ovarian cancer was based on a randomized controlled trial (UKCTOCS) involving 27 primary care trusts adjacent to 13 trial centers based at NHS Trusts in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Postmenopausal average-risk women aged 50–74 with intact ovaries and no previous ovarian or current non-ovarian cancer were included. One of the two annual screening strategies applied: multimodal screening (MMS) using a longitudinal CA125 algorithm with repeat CA125 testing and transvaginal ultrasound scan as a second-line test; or ultrasound screening (USS) using transvaginal scan alone with repeat scan to confirm any abnormality. It was concluded that population screening for ovarian and tubal cancer for average-risk women using these strategies should not be undertaken.

See the full details here.

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