Cancer of the Oral Cavity and Medical Malpractice

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Abstract
Objective To analyze malpractice litigation initiated by patients with cancer of the oral cavity as a result of allegations concerning their diagnosis and treatment.Study Design Retrospective review.Methods Jury verdict reviews from 1984 to 2000 were obtained from a computerized legal database and analyzed. Reviews compile pertinent data on defendants, plaintiffs, verdict outcomes, indemnity payments, and allegations of wrongdoing and provide case summaries. Fifty cases from 21 of all 50 states were obtained. Data were entered into a spreadsheet for analysis.Results Overall, a young age (mean age, 45 y) and poor oncological outcome (47% dead) were seen. The younger age group (Conclusions Young age of patients bringing litigation is seen in patients with oral cancer. These patients frequently have poor oncological outcomes. Risk management goals to prevent delays in diagnosis may help prevent subsequent litigation.