Adverse Events in Carotid Endarterectomy From a Medicolegal Perspective

作者：Svider Peter F^*; Vidal Gian Paul; Zumba Osvaldo; Mauro Andrew C; Haser Paul B; Graham Alan; Rahimi Saum

来源：Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, 2014, 48(5-6): 425-429.

DOI：10.1177/1538574414544382

• carotid endarterectomy
• negligence
• liability
• medicolegal
• malpractice
• litigation

Objectives: Characterize factors raised in carotid endarterectomy litigation.
Methods: Outcomes, alleged causes of malpractice, and other factors were evaluated.
Results: Of the 37 verdicts and settlements, defendants were not liable in 25 (67.5%) cases. Frequently reported complications included stroke (51.3%) and hypoglossal nerve injury (27.0%), with other complications including airway compromise, vocal cord injury, and death. No cases reported myocardial infarction. Cerebral monitoring was mentioned in 2 cases, while inadequate informed consent, delayed diagnosis, and requirement of additional surgery were alleged in numerous instances. Settlements and jury awards averaged US$895 833 and US$1.53 million, respectively.
Conclusions: Stroke and hypoglossal nerve injury are the most frequently litigated complications, and mean damages awarded were considerable. Knowledge of issues raised in our analysis may be included in a comprehensive consent process, potentially minimizing liability and improving patient safety.

• 出版日期2014-8
• 单位rutgers