Analysis of the medical accident cases related to dental implants

Abstract

  We used the P-m SHELL model-a medical accident analysis tool- to investigate the fundamental causes of medical accidents related to dental implants and thus prevent future accidents.

  Using online database and electronic book data, we gathered 10 cases of medical litigation related to dental implants that were processed between 1993 and November 2017. We then analyzed these cases, using the P-m SHELL model. Of the 10 cases, two were dismissed by the court. In the other eight, the complaints were as follows: four nerve injuries, two masticatory disorders, one of the mouth floor hematoma, and one maxillary sinus perforation（overlapping）. The oral hematoma caused airway obstruction that lead to the death of the patient. The most common reason for the lawsuits was nerve injury. All accidents were caused by persons other than the patients, and many factors lead to the human errors involved such as negligence of the medical workers, inadequate safety education and lack of comprehensive manuals.

  To prevent future accidents, medical staff must improve their knowledge and skills, foster an environment that allows easy communication among workers, confirm information efficiently, and maintain manuals.