Vitreoretinal specialists are at risk for malpractice litigation because a high percentage of the diseases they manage have significant potential for severe visual impairment or blindness and because most vitreoretinal surgery is more complex in nature than general ophthalmic surgery. Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment is the most common presenting diagnosis in most studies on ophthalmic malpractice litigation, and most of these patients are treated by vitreoretinal specialists. Many vitreoretinal patients present for treatment of trauma or failed treatment by another practitioner and may be more prone to litigation. As consultants, vitreoretinal specialists are at risk for being included in lawsuits primarily directed toward other physicians. These risks are a strong indication for a thorough discussion of informed consent and the development of a good physician-patient relationship.
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