Causes and Outcomes of Dental Malpractice Litigation in the Riyadh Region of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Introduction: Every health organization aims to provide high-quality service and promote patient safety. However, achieving these goals can be challenging in many healthcare systems around the world. In dentistry, dentists can face medicolegal issues, which can be overcome by exploring the reasons for dental malpractice litigation. In this study, we aim to identify the most common causes and outcomes of dental malpractice litigation in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Methods: This is a retrospective study. We reviewed all closed cases in dentistry as decided by the Medico-Legal Committee of Saudi Arabia in the Riyadh region over a period of 5 years and 3 months, from January 1, 2014, to March 31, 2019. Descriptive analysis was used to examine the phenomenon of dental malpractice claims. Results: In total, 151 claims were analyzed. As per our findings, it was determined that the number of closed claims had increased, with the highest number of claims (35%) related to the prosthodontics specialty, followed by endodontics specialty (31%). The most common causes of litigation were failure to conduct the procedure properly (31.5%) and poor documentation (19.7%). With respect to litigation outcomes, 54% ended up with verdict in favor of the plaintiff. Conclusions: It was determined that there is a rising trend of malpractice litigation in the dentistry field; thus, measures should be taken to address these concerns.