Medical malpractice allegations related otolaryngologists

Abstract

This study aims to raise the awareness of otolaryngologists regarding medical malpractice allegations. Among the files adjudicated between 01/01/2012 and 31/12/2015 by the First Specialization Board of The Council of Forensic Medicine, cases with malpractice allegations accused of otolaryngologists were analyzed retrospectively. Fifty-seven cases were included in the study. Thirty-six cases (63.2%) were male, 21 cases (36.8%) were female. The mean age was 32.87±20.3 years (1-84). The cases were mostly in the 18-39 age group (n=22, 38.6%). The event subject to the claim occurred most frequently in the state hospital (n=24, 42.1%). In 57 cases, a total of 68 otolaryngologists were accused of malpractice. The most common diagnoses made in the health institution were trauma (n=13, 22.8%) and respiratory tract infection (n=10, 17.5%). Otolaryngologists were most frequently blamed for inadequate treatment (n=25, 26.3%) and lack of indifference (n=15, 26.3%). Surgical treatment was performed on 26 patients (45.7%). The most common operations were septorhinoplasty and tonsillectomy. Complications occurred in 73.7% of the cases. The board's opinion was that only 10.5% of the cases had malpractice. A comprehensive review of the medical malpractice allegations will contribute to a better understanding of these cases and necessary strategies to reduce possible claims and improve health services.