Surgical Consent & Medico-Legal Safety
Why Informed Consent Is a Critical Part of Every Surgery
At Aayush Multispeciality Hospital, Thane – By Dr. Ankur Bhanushali
General, Laparoscopic, Laser & Daycare Surgery Specialist
What Is Surgical Consent?
Surgical consent is a legal and ethical document in which the patient (or relative) gives permission for a surgical procedure after understanding the nature, risks, benefits, and alternatives.
Consent is not just a signature—it is a communication process.
Why Surgical Consent Is Mandatory
Proper consent:
✔ Protects patient rights
✔ Ensures transparency
✔ Builds trust between doctor and patient
✔ Prevents medico-legal disputes
✔ Is legally required before surgery
No surgery should proceed without valid consent (except lifesaving emergencies).
Types of Surgical Consent
✔ Informed consent – Most common
✔ High-risk consent – For complex surgeries
✔ Anesthesia consent
✔ Blood transfusion consent
✔ ICU / ventilator consent
Each serves a specific legal purpose.
What Information Must Be Explained?
✔ Diagnosis
✔ Nature of surgery
✔ Expected benefits
✔ Possible complications
✔ Alternative treatment options
✔ Post-operative recovery expectations
Patient understanding is essential.
Who Can Give Consent?
✔ Adult patient (mentally sound)
✔ Legal guardian (for minors)
✔ Next of kin (if patient is unconscious)
Consent must be voluntary and informed.
Consent in Emergency Surgery
In life-threatening situations:
✔ Emergency consent is obtained
✔ Treatment proceeds to save life
✔ Documentation is still mandatory
Law permits treatment in the patient’s best interest.
Consent in Daycare & Minor Surgeries
Even minor procedures require:
✔ Written consent
✔ Explanation of risks
✔ Anesthesia disclosure
There are no “small” surgeries legally.
Language & Documentation Standards
✔ Consent in language patient understands
✔ Avoid medical jargon
✔ Date & time mentioned
✔ Signatures of patient, doctor & witness
Improper consent can be legally invalid.
Role of Surgeon in Consent Process
✔ Personally explains procedure
✔ Answers patient questions
✔ Documents discussion
✔ Avoids delegation
Consent is a doctor’s responsibility.
Medico-Legal Importance of Consent
Poor consent may lead to:
❌ Legal cases
❌ Hospital liability
❌ Loss of professional reputation
Proper consent protects both patient & surgeon.
Consent Protocol at Aayush Multispeciality Hospital
✔ Standardized consent formats
✔ Separate anesthesia & surgery consent
✔ High-risk disclosures documented
✔ Emergency consent guidelines followed
Legal safety is taken seriously.
Why Patients Trust Dr. Ankur Bhanushali
✔ Honest risk explanation
✔ No hidden information
✔ Ethical medical practice
✔ Patient-first decision making
Transparency builds confidence.
Aayush Multispeciality Hospital – Full Address
📍 1st Floor, Marigold Apartment, Almeda Road, Panch Pakhdi, Thane West – 400602, Maharashtra, India
📞 +91 86910 33033
🌐 https://drankurbhanushali.com
📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/3Msc7YZqVkV9mQMQ7
Dr. Ankur Surgical Clinic – Full Address
📍 Shop No 4, Laxmi Krupa Building, Edulji Road, Charai, Thane West – 400602, Maharashtra, India
📞 +91 86910 33066
🌐 https://bestsurgeoninthane.com
📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/XmmGNbgFyhGcqfvV6
