A medical-legal perspective on overlapping surgery.

In the U.S., there has recently been increased scrutiny on the appropriateness of surgeons performing overlapping cases and the potential for adverse consequences. This article describes the current literature on overlapping surgery and the ethics that guide behavior by performing a review of the PUBMED literature on overlapping surgery and analysis. Although the literature on overlapping surgery supports it as a safe practice, some public opinion runs contrary to the data, which is driving changes in policy. Surgeons should become familiar with the overlapping surgery policy in the hospital(s) in which they practice and be mindful of the potential consequences of performing overlapping surgeries.