Soft Tissue Filler Therapy and Informed Consent: A Canadian Review

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Medical Law
• Patient Safety

Background:

• Soft Tissue Filler (STF) therapy is widely used for cosmetic facial rejuvenation.
• Complications from STF therapy can result in patient litigation and regulatory complaints.
• Allegations often center on inadequate informed consent.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze medical-legal cases related to STF therapy and informed consent.
• To review Canadian court and regulatory body decisions on informed consent in STF therapy.
• To identify risk factors in the informed consent process for STF procedures.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of data from the Canadian Medical Protective Association (CMPA) on STF therapy cases (2005-2019).
• Review of select Canadian case law and regulatory body decisions concerning informed consent.
• Identification of communication and documentation elements crucial for informed consent.

Main Results:

• Medical-legal cases involving STF therapy frequently cite issues with informed consent.
• Case law highlights the importance of clear communication regarding potential complications.
• Specific risk factors in the consent process have been identified.

Conclusions:

• Enhanced understanding of informed consent is crucial for practitioners providing STF therapy.
• Improved communication and documentation practices can mitigate legal risks.
• Ensuring patients are fully aware of STF therapy consequences is paramount for patient safety and legal compliance.