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Informed consent for middle ear operations: a United Kingdom survey
N Saravanappa1, A Balfour, D Bowdler
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery, University Hospital Lewisham, London, UK.
Clinical Otolaryngology and Allied Sciences
|April 12, 2003
Summary
Informed consent for middle ear operations shows significant variation among UK surgeons. This audit highlights inconsistencies in discussing risks like facial nerve palsy and hearing loss, impacting patient understanding and legal compliance.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Surgical Ethics
- Patient Safety
Background:
- Middle ear operations are common procedures performed by Otorhinolaryngologists.
- Potential complications, such as facial nerve palsy and hearing loss, can be devastating.
- Informed consent is crucial due to clinical governance and medico-legal considerations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To audit the informed consent process for middle ear operations among UK Consultant Otorhinolaryngologists.
- To assess variations in discussing complications, complication rates, consenting personnel, time spent, and documentation.
Main Methods:
- A postal questionnaire was distributed to Consultant members of the British Association of Otorhinolaryngologists-Head and Neck Surgeons.
- The audit focused on the consenting process prior to middle ear surgery.
Main Results:
- Significant variations were identified in the informed consent process for middle ear operations.
- Practices regarding discussion of specific complications, complication rates, and documentation differed widely.
Conclusions:
- The study underscores the need for standardized informed consent practices in middle ear surgery.
- Findings are timely given the implementation of new Department of Health consenting standards.
- Addressing variations is essential for improving patient safety and meeting medico-legal requirements.