Consent for orthognathic surgery: a UK perspective

Informed Consent in Orthognathic Surgery

“…Obtaining informed consent for orthognathic surgical interventions is a process that begins at the first visit when treatment is proposed and continues until the operation. [3][4][5] Information can be shared verbally or in writing, and by the nature of orthognathic surgery, it is often repeated at several points during planning. Written consent is generally obtained at the time of the operation.…”

“…Current UK case law asserts that the surgeon must inform patients of serious complications of surgery even if they are rare or small. 3 The informed consent process must include discussion of the benefits, risks, and potential complications of the proposed procedure, and any alternative (including doing nothing). 3 The potential risks that can be explained before orthognathic surgery are as follows:…”

“…8 In fact, we do not think that very rare, although catastrophic, events should be mentioned before orthognathic surgery; otherwise, before every orthognathic surgical intervention, the possibility of death, damage to the optic, oculomotor, abducens, trochlear, vagus, and hypoglossal nerves, and of auriculotemporal (Frey) syndrome should also be told. 3 We think that surgeons should not be considered guilty if they do not mention the rarest risks associated with orthognathic surgery.…”

“…Adequately informing a patient confirms this relationship and fulfills the legal obligation of the physician to inform the patient to the best of his knowledge. [1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8] The surgeon is authorized to act only in the presence of an explicit manifestation of the patient's agreement, as no person can be forced to undergo medical/surgical therapy against his will, except when a specific law provides otherwise. 7 Informed consent is the process of providing patients with the realistic and necessary information in a manner which they can understand and recall, to allow them voluntarily to make an informed choice on the treatment.…”

“…The information therefore must include the benefits and alternatives, and the potential risks, of the proposed procedure. 3,6 Nowadays, informed consent takes on special importance as the single most mentioned entity in many malpractice suits, emphasizing the importance of open communication between surgeons and their patients regarding the potential risks, benefits, and alternatives of a procedure. 9 In particular, understanding the factors involved in determining legal responsibility takes on special importance in today's litigious environment.…”