Medicolegal issues in otorhinolaryngology: a review

Abstract

The doctor-patient relationship has undergone a sea change in the past few decades because of the result of fast commercialization and globalization of the medical profession. Miscommunication and lack of patient consent are important points that lead to complaints against surgeons in otorhinolaryngology and other medical specialties. Otolaryngology is a dynamic field, with standards of care changing with the advent and popularization of numerous technological innovations. Inadequate documentation and suing unusual terminologies are the well-known reason for errors in Otorhinolaryngology. The treatment has the potential to affect the ability for getting hearing, smelling, talking, swallowing, and breathing. So, any event that affects adversely results in a dramatic impact on quality of life. This specialty typically also involves the face and the part of the body that most people associate with one’s identity. Most complications due to otorhinolaryngological surgeries may not result in litigation, however, management of the post-complication period is important to prevent lawsuits. Adequate awareness of the factors involved in lawsuits in Otorhinolaryngology allows surgeons to reduce their risk of prosecution.