Informing the Consent Process for Surgeons: A Survey Study of Patient Preferences, Perceptions, and Risk Tolerance

Despite the ethical and statutory requirement to obtain consent for surgical procedures, the actual process itself is less well defined. The degree of disclosure and detail expected may vary greatly. A recent shift toward a more patient-centered approach in both clinical and medico-legal practice has significant implications for ensuring appropriate and legal practice in obtaining informed consent before surgery.

Two hundred patients undergoing elective surgery across two hospitals returned a survey of attitudes toward consent, perceived important elements in the consent process, and risk tolerance, as well as demographic details.

No significant associations between patient demographics and survey responses were found. Patients were least concerned with the environment in which consent was taken and the disclosure of uncommon complications. The most important factors related to communication and rapport between clinician and patients, as opposed to procedure- or complication-specific items. A majority of patients preferred risks to be described using proportional descriptors, rather than percentage or non-numeric descriptors.

Risk tolerance and desired level of disclosure varies for each patient and should not be presumed to be covered by standardized proformas. We suggest an individualized approach, taking into account each patient's background, understanding, and needs, is crucial for consent. Communications skills must be prioritized to ensure patient satisfaction and reduced risk of litigation.