Informed Consent is a decision-making process where a patient is educated about their medical condition by their physician and gives permission for a specific treatment. The process involves evaluating the patient and their medical conditions, considering treatment options and discussing potential benefits, risks and possible complications of a specific treatment. Permission is documented in a written informed consent signed by the patient (or their guardian if the patient is a minor or power of attorney if the patient is unable to make their own decision). Occasionally verbal consent may be obtained. Informed Consent is also required for participation in a research study/clinical trial.
In breast surgery, Informed Consents are obtained prior to a biopsy or surgery. The Informed Consent addresses:
Name of the procedure to be performed
Includes site of the procedure; right, left, bilateral
May include specific location of the breast problem
What is the problem being addressed; i.e. breast cancer, abnormal breast imaging, nipple discharge, etc.
Other options to the specific treatment offered
This includes “No Treatment” as an option
Benefits for having the specific treatment
Consequences of not having the specific treatment
Possible Complications of the specific treatment
Patients should ask any questions they have about their medical conditions and their treatment options. There is no such thing as a bad question. An informed patient is an empowered patient.
Additional information may be obtained on the American College of Surgeons website link: