Primer on risk management for the gynaecological laparoscopist

The gynaecologist practising operative laparoscopy should be seen as part of a team that actively promotes patient safety, minimizing risks and optimizing outcomes. Building a culture of safety which focuses on proactive initiatives to manage risk and remove individual ‘blame’ should be an integral part of any operative laparoscopy unit. Thus, when adverse clinical incidents or outcomes occur, reporting of such events is encouraged and seen to be acceptable behaviour within the framework of complete patient care. By recognizing and analysing adverse outcomes, the team can develop strategies to prevent or manage a recurrence of such events. Implementing systems or solutions to prevent harm to patients is the cornerstone of any risk management programme. In this review, we discuss the development and implementation of risk management strategies in the clinical setting, and in particular how this applies to operative laparoscopy.