Adverse Events in Carotid Endarterectomy From a Medicolegal Perspective. (July 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Svider, Peter F.; Vidal, Gian-Paul; Zumba, Osvaldo; Mauro, Andrew C.; Haser, Paul B.; Graham, Alan; Rahimi, Saum
• Is Part Of: Vascular & endovascular surgery. Volume 48:Number 5/6(2014)
• Page Start: 425
• Page End: 429
• Publication Date: 2014-07
• Subjects: carotid endarterectomy -- negligence -- liability -- medicolegal -- malpractice -- litigation; Blood-vessels -- Surgery -- Periodicals; Blood-vessels -- Endoscopic surgery -- Periodicals; Vascular Surgical Procedures -- Periodicals; Angioplasty -- Periodicals; Surgical Procedures, Minimally Invasive -- Periodicals; Vascular Diseases -- surgery -- Periodicals; Vaisseaux sanguins -- Chirurgie -- Périodiques; Vaisseaux sanguins -- Chirurgie endoscopique -- Périodiques; 617.41
• DOI: 10.1177/1538574414544382
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1538-5744

Abstract

Objectives: Characterize factors raised in carotid endarterectomy litigation. Methods: Outcomes, alleged causes of malpractice, and other factors were evaluated. Results: Of the 37 verdicts and settlements, defendants were not liable in 25 (67.5%) cases. Frequently reported complications included stroke (51.3%) and hypoglossal nerve injury (27.0%), with other complications including airway compromise, vocal cord injury, and death. No cases reported myocardial infarction. Cerebral monitoring was mentioned in 2 cases, while inadequate informed consent, delayed diagnosis, and requirement of additional surgery were alleged in numerous instances. Settlements and jury awards averaged US$895 833 and US$1.53 million, respectively. Conclusions: Stroke and hypoglossal nerve injury are the most frequently litigated complications, and mean damages awarded were considerable. Knowledge of issues raised in our analysis may be included in a comprehensive consent process, potentially minimizing liability and improving patient safety.