Researchers conducted a contemporary analysis of patient injury, allegations, and contributing factors of anesthesia-related closed claims, which involved cases that specifically occurred in free-standing ambulatory surgery centers.

Closed claims data between 2007 and 2014 from The Doctors Company, a medical malpractice insurer, were analyzed using Candello data to identify factors that led to medical error in anesthesia cases. Analysis of ambulatory surgery center and hospital operating room claims demonstrated significant differences and several common sources of liability.

The full-text of this study is available in the peer review Journal of Patient Safety.

Leading Causes of Anesthesia-related Liability Claims in Ambulatory Surgery Centers

Ranum D, Beverly A, Shapiro F, Urman R. Leading causes of anesthesia-related liability claims in ambulatory surgery centers. Journal of Patient Safety. 2021; 17 (7): 513-521. doi: 10.1097/PTS.0000000000000431. (Subscription may be required.)