Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 24, 2026

Minimally Invasive Treatment for Thoracolumbar Burst Fracture Using Sagittal Alignment Screws and A Trauma Reduction Device
Published on: November 8, 2024
Malpractice litigation and the spine: the NHS perspective on 235 successful claims in England
N A Quraishi1, T C Hammett, D B Todd
1Centre for Spine Studies and Surgery, Queens Medical Centre, West Block, Derby Road, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK. nasquraishi@hotmail.com
Purpose:
The objective of this study was to evaluate the overall incidence and total burden of successful litigation relating to the management of spinal disease across the National Health Service (NHS) in England.
Methods:
The study design comprised a retrospective review of the NHS Litigation Authority (NHSLA) database, retrieving all successful claims relating to spinal disease between 2002 and 2010--a total of 235 (144 acute, 91 elective).
Results:
The general trend for successful claims with relation to spinal surgery has actually been decreasing steadily over the last few years. The total value of these claims during the period was £ 60.5 million, comprising £ 42.8 million (£ 28.6 million relating to acute diagnoses, £ 16.1 million for elective) in damages and £ 17.7 million in legal costs (31% relating to NHS legal costs, the remainder claimants costs).
Conclusions:
Spinal litigation remains a source of significant cost to the NHS. The complexity of resolving these cases is reflected in the associated legal costs.
More Related Videos
04:33Spinal Hernia Repair and Cauda Equina Repositioning After Lumbar Decompression under Three-Dimensional Microscopy: A Case Report and Literature Review
Published on: November 8, 2024
06:28Biomechanical Changes Related to Low Back Pain: An Innovative Tool for Movement Pattern Assessment and Treatment Evaluation in Rehabilitation
Published on: December 13, 2024
Related Concept Videos
Torts I
Intentional...
Torts III
Quasi-intentional torts in healthcare involve acts where intent is not directed to harm an individual but results in harm due to careless or reckless speech.
Torts II
Nurses' Legal Responsibilities II
Communication between nurses and patients...
Nurses' Legal Responsibilities I
The legal responsibilities of a nurse regarding informed consent include the following:
Nurses' Legal Responsibilities III
Cultivating a culture of collaboration and mutual respect among nurses transcends mere enhancement...