Demandas judiciales contra médicos en Chile / Lawsuits against physicians in Chile

ABSTRACT

Lawsuits against physicians are becoming relevant in Chile. We analized 18 trials against physicians that occured between 1977 and 1985 and that were ruled by Metropolitan Region courts. The causes of demands were death of patients in 8 trials and severe lesions in the rest. Twelve trials originated from surgical procedures (6 from gynecological interventions) and 9 came from private clinics. Nine trials lasted less than 2 years and 3, more than 5 years. Sentences was pronounced by criminal courts in 12 cases and by appealing courts in six