Purpose: Nowadays despite attempts having made by the medical society, health and therapeutic personnel as well as advancements in the therapeutic technology, yet the rate of non-satisfaction and actions by patients continue to increase. The aim of this study was to investigate malpractice complaints against ophthalmologists referred to the state of legal medicine organization.

 Methods: This is a cross-sectional descriptive study on medical complaints cases against malpractice in the field of ophthalmology referred to the State of Legal Medicine Organization Medical Commission for consideration between 2003 and 2005. SPSS software was used for data analysis.

 Results: Total medical negligence complaints considered in the medical commission during 3 years was 1581 cases, of them 147 (9.29%) cases were related to the field of ophthalmology. Out of total 147 cases set forth in the commission, in 31 cases it was established that a medical negligence has been occurred. Legally, the most common type of negligence was found to be of type of lack of expertise and in the next rank, carelessness. Among total cases considered in the present study, the majority was allotted to the actions brought against private sector health centers. Out of total approved cases as negligence in consideration, the rate of negligence allotted to the university centers was less than other therapeutic centers. The highest rate of filed complaints was related to the cataract surgery (92 cases), followed by LASIK procedure (21 cases).

Conclusion: Ophthalmologists are advised, while establishing a good communication and behavior with patients and their companions, to be careful that prior to committing any kind of procedure, to inform patients of probable and unpredictable complications of the treatment and also to have necessary medical consultations plus to apply pre- and post-operative cares. Furthermore, physicians shall be educated about legal issues.

Iranian Journal of Ophthalmology 200820(1):4-8