How much preoperative information? - How can it be documented?

Preoperative information for patients and documentation of this information are becoming increasingly significant. Opinions diverge especially on how to document the information provided, the information protocol being only an ancillary element. The patient must be in a position to make an informed decision without suffering any prejudice. Information protocols relating to treatment, that is to the operation, aim at ensuring the quality of the treatment and at documenting the information provided. A scheme of the operation is an important element of this information. Twenty-one presurgical information protocols have been tested in a pilot phase and are still being evaluated by a patients' association. Information and documentation concepts need to be set up by professional societies before insurance companies and governmental offices start getting involved. Copyright (C) 1999 S. Karger AG. Basel.