Lessons from rhinology and facial plastic surgery clinical negligence claims in England 2013-2018

Objective This study reviewed all rhinology clinical negligence claims in the National Health Service in England between 2013 and 2018. Method All clinical negligence claims held by National Health Service Resolution relating to rhinology in England between 1 April 2013 and 1 April 2018 were reviewed. Results There were 171 rhinology related claims with a total estimated potential cost of 13.6 pound million. There were 119 closed claims (70 per cent) with a total cost of 2.3 pound million, of which 55 claims resulted in payment of damages. Over three quarters of all rhinology claims were associated with surgery (n = 132). Claims associated with endoscopic sinus surgery had the highest mean cost per claim (172 pound 978). Unnecessary pain (33.9 per cent) and unnecessary operation (28.1 per cent) were the most commonly cited patient injuries. Conclusion Patient education and consent have been highlighted as key areas for improvement from this review of rhinology related clinical negligence claims. A shift in clinical practice towards shared decision making could reduce litigation in rhinology.