Failed consent in spinal surgery again. Minimum standards for consent must be adopted by all surgeons

Failed consent in spinal surgery again. Minimum standards for consent must be adopted by all surgeons
Original Article
Nicholas V. Todd
British Journal of Neurosurgery, 11 January 2021
Abstract
Aim
To report another case of failed consent in spinal surgery leading to an award in damages of £4.4 million and to suggest an improved method of recording discussions in respect of consent.
Methods
A recent Court Judgment, previous Judgments and the relevant medical law were reviewed.
Results
A standardised proforma recording the necessary preoperative discussions that must be had with our patients is described.
Conclusions
Spinal surgeons must adhere to new standards in respect of the consenting process and, crucially, in recording the dialogue that has occurred between the patient and the surgeon.