Consent in orthopaedic surgery.
OBJECTIVE
To investigate whether the guidelines set out by the UK Department of Health on informed consent are being followed nationally in orthopaedic surgery.


METHODS
A postal questionnaire of UK orthopaedic consultants was undertaken asking about consenting procedures for an elective and a trauma situation.


RESULTS
In 53 of 110 cases, the most junior member of the team takes consent, and patients are not being warned about specific complications and risks associated with surgery.


CONCLUSIONS
The guidelines issued by the Department of Health are not being adhered to, and the consenting doctor needs to be aware of the medical and legal responsibilities in taking informed consent.
Singh
Sameer
S
Department of Orthopaedics, East Surrey Hospital, Redhill, Surrey, UK. sameer.singh@virgin.net
Mayahi
Rez
R
D019983:Guideline Adherence; D006801:Humans; D007258:Informed Consent; D019637:Orthopedic Procedures / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence / Q000592:standards*; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic; D006113:United Kingdom