Investigation of ERCP-Related Medical Complaints Referred to Forensic Medicine Department of Tehran over a Six-Year Period (2011-2016)

Considering that ERCP is one of the most difficult and high risk activity fields of gastroenterologists, it is expected that a great percentage of complaints exist in this area. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the ERCP-related medical complaints referred to the forensic medicine department of Tehran over six years (2011-2016).

This study was conducted by descriptive-analytical and retrospective method. First, the statistics of the recorded complaints in the forensic medicine department of Tehran province against gastroenterology subspecialist or subspecialist assistants were extracted over six years (2011-2016). Then, the ERCP-related complaint cases, that their investigation was completed were selected.

The ERCP-related complaints over the years of 2011-2016 included 35 cases, which 21 patients (60.0%) were males and 14 patients (40.0%) were females. In the 34 cases (97.1%) ERCP had accurate and scientific indication and only one case did not have an indication. In 26 (74.2%) cases after ERCP, proper diagnosis and treatment were performed. According to the primary commission, medical malpractice had been recognized in 10 cases (28.6%), and 25 cases (71.4%) had led to the acquittal of the doctor.

The selection of the patients based on the correct indication for ERCP operation and examination the patients after operation of the procedure in order to diagnose the probable side effects and its proper treatment have a significant role in reducing the number of complaints.