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RRD most common reason retinal specialists face malpractice suits
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Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment is the most common presenting diagnosis in ophthalmic malpractice litigation, according to Marvin Kraushar, MD. He advises physicians to have a thorough discussion of informed consent with their patients to try and reduce the amount of litigation.
Dr. Kraushar mailed questionnaires to members of the macula, retina and vitreous societies to determine malpractice litigation experience.
Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment was the most common presenting diagnosis in malpratice litigation. The most frequent modality of management was pars plana vitrectomy (40%). Negligent treatment was alleged more often then negligent diagnosis.
“Many vitreoretinal patients present for treatment of trauma or failed treatment by another practitioner and may be more prone to litigation. As consultants, vitreoretinal specialists are at risk for being included in lawsuits primarily directed toward other physicians,” Dr. Kraushar wrote in Retina.