Trial and Error: Learning From Malpractice Claims in Childhood Surgery.

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Medical Malpractice
• Healthcare Quality Improvement

Background:

• Malpractice claims in pediatric surgery are a significant concern.
• Understanding contributing factors is crucial for enhancing patient safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify factors contributing to malpractice claims in pediatric surgical patients.
• To analyze a nationwide database of pediatric surgical liability claims.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the CRICO database for malpractice claims involving patients 18 years or younger (2008-2017).
• Employed descriptive statistics and logistic regression for data analysis.

Main Results:

• 844 claims were reviewed; 76% involved patients over 5 years old.
• Infants (<1 year) accounted for 24% of total indemnity paid, averaging $1,135,240 per claimant.
• Orthopedics, General Surgery, and Otolaryngology were the most frequently named services; common factors included patient assessment, technical performance, and communication issues.

Conclusions:

• Pediatric surgical malpractice claims span various specialties.
• Modifiable factors like patient evaluation, technical performance, and communication are critical for improving pediatric surgical care.
• Targeting identified contributing factors offers opportunities for focused improvements in patient outcomes.