[Complications of and after hysterectomy. Retrospective study of 5,676 patients--guidelines for preoperative patient education].

PROBLEM: Over the last three decades, litigation resulting from gynecological operations has risen considerably. This is attributed to no small extent to inadequate preoperative information of the patient by the physician.

METHODS

The medical histories of 5,676 patients submitted to hysterectomy were evaluated retrospectively and all intraoperative and postoperative complications analyzed.

RESULTS

In order to be able to give the patient comprehensive information, the physician must be familiar with the nature and incidence of possible complications, on the basis not only of his own personal experience, but also of the data provided by extensive case material. Forensic disputes can be reduced only by ensuring that the patient is fully informed and thus that her agreement to the operation is legally binding.