[Risk management in gynecology and obstetrics. Forensic questions in connection with operative gynecology and obstetrics].

Due to the avalanche-like increase of malpractice suits, it has become mandatory for doctors in hospitals and private practices to acquire a profound knowledge relating to modern management and to become familiar with the legal aspects of medical procedures. The article at hand reviews the standards of medical documentation and risk information within the scope of operative gynaecology and obstetrics and provides guidelines for a structured behaviour once an incident has occurred. The typical sources of complications are presented and strategies to avoid them are outlined: professional clinical management including the definition of competences for all therapists working together in a hospital. By observing these principles a professional medical level even in administrative respect is provided and thus enables an atmosphere of mutual confidence among doctors and patients.