Complications in diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopic procedures on the lower gastrointestinal tract. Collegial discussion of informed consent by the Association of Quality Care Experts

This article examines the key legal and medical requirements for drafting informed consent (IC) forms for diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopic procedures on the lower gastrointestinal tract (GIT). Special attention is paid to the importance of standardizing the approach to documenting indications, contraindications, and potential complications in IC forms to enhance patient safety and protect healthcare institutions. The authors analyze Russian and international data, emphasizing the necessity of effectively informing patients about the risks of endoscopic procedures, including possible adverse events (AEs) such as perforation, bleeding, and infectious complications. The article highlights that drafting IC forms must consider legislative requirements, clinical guidelines, and up-to-date safety data. Recommendations are provided for minimizing AE risks through staged patient assessments, tailored selection of tools and methods, and enhancing the training of medical personnel. This article serves as a valuable resource for endoscopists, legal experts, and healthcare administrators committed to improving the quality and safety of medical care. The material is accompanied by practical examples and a review of complications associated with colonoscopy.