Risk management, adverse events and litigation in vitreoretinal surgery

Abstract

Using data from the UK National Reporting and Learning System and the National Health Service Litigation Authority, this paper assesses trends in patient safety incidents and litigation in relation to ophthalmic surgery generally and vitreoretinal (VR) surgery in particular. Examples of human error and equipment-related incidents in VR surgery are discussed. Data from incident reporting and litigation should be interpreted with care as these are influenced by many factors. An open culture, improved reporting and prioritisation of patient safety will help provide further insight into the prevalence and causes of patient safety incidents in VR surgery.