Standardized Informed Consent Form for Clinicians Administering Platelet-Rich Plasma

Standardized Informed Consent Form for Clinicians Administering Platelet-Rich Plasma
Satvik N. Pai, Naveen Jeyaraman, Ravichandran Venkatasalam, Ravi VR, Swaminathan Ramasubramanian, Sangeetha Balaji, Arulkumar Nallakumarasamy, Shilpa Sharma, Bishnu P. Patro, Madhan Jeyaraman
Cureus, 3 April 2024; 16(4)
Abstract
Introduction
When it comes to medico-legal malpractice suits, lawyers and insurers tend to focus on informed consent documentation. Unfortunately, there is no standard protocol for obtaining informed consent for the use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, which might cause problems. This study aimed to mitigate this concern through the development of a standardized informed consent document for PRP injections, grounded in evidence-based practices.
Materials and methods
An examination of databases was conducted to explore the medico-legal ramifications associated with PRP injections, as well as the broader topic of informed consent, with a particular focus on the context of PRP injections. Moreover, interviews were carried out with healthcare providers and individuals who had received PRP injections within the preceding year, utilizing a semi-structured methodology.
Results
We developed an evidence-based informed consent document tailored for PRP injections. To guarantee its legal validity, the document underwent review by a legal specialist. Subsequently, our institutions implemented the finalized form for PRP injection procedures over one year.
Conclusion
A legally valid and evidence-based informed consent form for PRP injections would ensure patient’s rights, and encourage open communication and transparency between them and the doctor. Moreover, if a lawsuit were to arise, it would serve as a critical document in the doctor’s defense and withstand scrutiny from lawyers and the judiciary.