Surgical malpractice: staying out of trouble.

This article discusses why surgeons get into trouble more than most specialties and reviews data from the National Clinical Assessment Authority and the General Medical Council National Training Survey. It explores some of the areas that are known to be associated with the highest risk of suspension and malpractice claims, including working in the private and independent sectors, the introduction of new procedures and use of novel devices, consent and documentation, peri-procedural precautions, lack of resources and support, and medicolegal work. In each of these areas, he highlights pitfalls to avoid. The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of teamworking, an adequate workload, regular peer review, thorough counselling of patients, meticulous record keeping and attention to detail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]