title: How to practice dermatosurgery safely?
abstract: Dermatosurgery has become an integral and essential component of current dermatology practice. No surgery can be totally risk free, only the level of risk varies. Patient safety has to be ensured by following standard protocols and taking appropriate precautions to prevent complications and mishaps. Mismatch between patient's expectations and outcome can lead to litigation. A dermatosurgeon should take care of his legal safety by obtaining informed consent and meticulously documenting and preserving medical records. Importance of communication and maintaining of fiduciary relationship with the patient cannot be overemphasized.
authors.affiliation: Consultant Dermatologist, Central Government Health Scheme Polyclinic, Bangalore and Member, Indian Association of Dermatologists, Venereologists and Leprologists Dermatosurgery Task Force, Bangalore, Karnataka, India.
authors.forename: K H Satyanarayana
authors.initials: KH
authors.lastname: Rao
keywords: Dermatosurgery; informed consent; medical malpractice; patient safety; standard care