Rare or complex diseases can be treated more successfully in dedicated centres specialising in the treatment of these conditions, according to the latest research. Taking pituitary surgery as an example, a large peer-reviewed study published in Clinical Endocrinology indicates that the move in the late 1990s to concentrate treatment in specialist centres has resulted in a significant increase in success rates, better outcomes for patients and potential savings for the NHS.
Average success rates were 53% in 2000- 2004 compared to 39% in 1995-1999. The recent overall improvement in surgical results coincides with a national trend (from 1999 onwards) to concentrate pituitary surgery in regional centres of expertise where patients are seen by skilled surgeons with experience in treating this rare condition.
