What are the lessons we can glean from a review of recent closed malpractice cases involving oral and maxillofacial infections?

OMS National Insurance Company insures over 4700 oral and maxillofacial surgeons, 83% of the fellows and members of the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. The company has over 10,000 closed malpractice claims involving oral and maxillofacial surgeons. Data and trends involving infections that developed following elective surgical procedures and trends involving patients with preexisting odontogenic infections with adverse outcomes are well known to the company. Seven percent of the 10,000+ closed claims involve infections. Recognition and diagnosis of the infection leads to appropriate and timely treatment of infections. Delayed recognition, consultation, and referral leads to delay in the institution of appropriate treatment and can lead to adverse outcomes.

Risk management in oral and maxillofacial surgery.

The goal of risk management in the oral and maxillofacial surgery practice is to reduce the risk of care rendered to patients. Of all the elements of risk management, communication and documentation are two of the most important. Ensuring that a patient is truly educated about all facets of procedures to be performed and thoroughly documenting all aspects of the care that is rendered can greatly reduce the risk of claims. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons should practice these principles regularly and not wait for a claim to occur to teach them their benefits.