Treatment injuries sustained during treatment within the public health service. A report of an analysis of the claims submitted to the Patient Insurance (PI) scheme in Sweden during 1975-1979 in obstetrical and gynecological cases.

The Swedish Patient Insurance scheme is presented, and experience gained during the first 10 years discussed. About 70% of the claims concerned treatment injuries sustained during surgical intervention. During the first 5 years (1975-79), altogether 9,968 claims were submitted; 275 claims (2.8%) concerned obstetrical and gynecological treatment. These cases have been analysed and the pattern of complications was consistent with that found in the literature reviewed. Continuous follow-up and reporting of the claims is suggested. The need for stricter definitions of compensibility is obvious.