Patient injuries in the treatment of superficial venous insufficiency registered in Finland between 2004 and 2017

: Minna Laukkavirta, Karin Blomgren, Karoliina Halmesmäki, Veikko Nikulainen, Päivi Helmiö

Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS INC

: 2020

Phlebology

: PHLEBOLOGY

: ARTN 0268355520964294

: 8

: 0268-3555

: 1758-1125

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/0268355520964294

ObjectivesThis study aimed to identify the unintended incidents that led to patient injuries (PIs) in the treatment of superficial venous insufficiency (SVI).

MethodsPI claims filed with the Finnish Patient Insurance Centre between 2004 and 2017 involving SVI were reviewed. Factors contributing to PI were identified and classified.

ResultsEighteen (13.2%) of 136 compensated PIs in the specialty of vascular surgery were related to SVI. Only 4.7% of 383 SVI claims were compensated. The incidence of PIs was 9.9 per 100 000 patients. Fifteen patients had open surgery (83.3%) and three (16.7%) endovenous treatment. Two (11.1%) patients had necrotising fasciitis, four (22.1%) had deep vein injuries and two (11.1%) had a permanent nerve injury. Two (11.1%) patients had retained endovenous material that required surgical removal.

ConclusionsPIs were identifiable during all stages of care, perioperative injuries related to open surgery being the most common.