OBJECTIVES: Evaluate the efficiency of using the Photopolymerizable Polymer Orthopedic Immobilizer (FlexiOH), a breathable and washable device, in patients requiring limb immobilization from the perspective of public health institutions in Mexico compared to the alternatives available in the current health system.

METHODS: A comprehensive cost-effectiveness economic evaluation was conducted to measure the costs and health outcomes of the Photopolymerizable Polymer Orthopedic Immobilizer (FlexiOH) compared to the existing alternatives in the Mexican public health system. Given the acute nature of the indication and the natural history of the disease being less than a year, a decision tree was used without considering a discount rate, with a time horizon of 16 weeks. The comparators were the standard treatments in the Mexican public health system, specifically the use of plaster cast. Efficacy data were obtained through a meta-analysis derived from a systematic review of the literature, and costs were obtained from public procurement sources of health institutions in Mexico. The evaluated population included both adult and pediatric patients. The outcome measure was the reduction of complications related to the use of immobilizers.

RESULTS: The analysis revealed that using the Photopolymerizable Polymer Orthopedic Immobilizer (FlexiOH) reduces the risk of complications by 8% in pediatric patients and 17% in adult patients compared to the plaster cast. This complication reduction translates into an estimated saving of USD 57,794.00 for every 1,000 pediatric patients and USD 126,149.00 for every 1,000 adult patients treated.

CONCLUSIONS: The Photopolymerizable Polymer Orthopedic Immobilizer (FlexiOH) compared to the plaster cast is a dominant alternative in the Mexican public health system as it generates greater health benefits and potential savings by avoiding complications related to limb immobilization. Therefore, it is an efficient option that should be considered for inclusion in the public health system in Mexico, generating significant savings for the budget of health institutions.