Medicolegal consequences of adhesions.
Postoperative intra-abdominal adhesions are an almost invariable consequence of abdominal and pelvic surgery. Most patients are unaware of their presence, but they may result in morbidity such as acute intestinal obstruction, female infertility and dyspareunia. Claims made against surgeons and gynaecologists in the UK are reviewed, and lessons are highlighted.
Ellis
Harold
H
Division of Anatomy, Guy's, King's and St Thomas' School of Biomedical Science, London SE1 1UL.
D002983:Clinical Competence / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D005260:Female; D013502:General Surgery / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D006176:Gynecology / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D006801:Humans; D007415:Intestinal Obstruction / Q000209:etiology; D007421:Intestine, Small; D008318:Malpractice / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000209:etiology*; D012307:Risk Factors; D000267:Tissue Adhesions / Q000209:etiology*