Cost savings from hetastarch use in place of albumin on a cardiothoracic surgery service.

The use of hetastarch in 38 cardiothoracic surgery patients was monitored prospectively to determine patient parameters that influence physicians' prescribing practices. Potential cost savings from substituting hetastarch for albumin were calculated and use of hetastarch, following introduction to the hospital, was monitored. Data were statistically analyzed, and no correlation was seen among operative procedure, type of admission (transfer or direct admission), or patient age. During the 2-month study period, $800 was saved on the cardiothoracic surgery unit by substituting hetastarch for 5% albumin. An additional $1,600 could have been saved if optimal amounts of hetastarch had been used. Substitution of hetastarch for 5% albumin on just one intensive care unit in this 283-bed hospital is projected to elicit annual cost savings of $14,000.