Cost-Effectiveness of Early Versus Late Interventional Radiology Drainage in Necrotizing Pancreatitis: A Decision Analysis Based on Cost Utility and Budget Impact

In this small decision analysis, IR drainage at five to six weeks demonstrated cost-effectiveness advantages, with significantly shorter ICU stays, fewer drainage procedures, reduced costs, and similar complication rates compared to drainage after six weeks. Larger prospective studies are needed to validate these findings and guide clinical practice.