Medical Malpractice in Urology: Analysis of Supreme Court Decisions in Turkey (2012-2022).

BACKGROUND

In recent years, claims of medical malpractice have increased. Doctors from the surgical branch frequently appear in medical malpractice reports. However, research in the national medical literature regarding the examination of court cases reflected in the higher judiciary in the field of urology appears to be lacking. This study aims to identify situations that give rise to malpractice claims in urology, specify errors and professionally risky situations and aid in the elimination of these deficiencies.

METHODS

We examined the Supreme Court appeal decisions related to urology malpractice cases resolved between 2012 and 2022, using the keywords "urology" and "urologist" on the official website of the Republic of Turkey Supreme Court.

RESULTS

We examined 37 Supreme Court decisions. We discovered that 12 cases involved negligent homicide, 9 cases involved negligent injury, 8 cases involved incorrect procedures, 4 cases involved lack of due care, 2 cases involved misuse of authority and 2 cases did not specify the type of fault.

CONCLUSIONS

We shed light on the instances in which urology specialists face allegations of malpractice. To avoid and minimise medical errors that may result in death or disability, specialists must be prepared for every situation before surgery and follow up the patients appropriately.