Cost-effectiveness analysis of PET/CT surveillance imaging to detect systemic recurrence in resected stage III melanoma: study protocol

摘要

In the new era of effective systemic therapies for advanced melanoma, early detection of lower volume recurrent disease using surveillance imaging can improve survival. However, intensive imaging follow-up strategies are likely to increase costs to health systems and may pose risks to patients. The objective of this study is to estimate from the Australian health system perspective the cost-effectiveness of four follow-up strategies in resected stage III melanoma over a 5-year period following surgical treatment with curative intent.