The New Zealand medical journal
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To determine which aspects of informed consent are important to patients and surgeons and to determine where there is disparity and similarity. ⋯ This study has identified aspects of informed consent that patients and doctors consider important, as well as aspects where there are significant differences. Both patients and doctors consider the explanations of risks and complications important, especially if the complication is serious and risk is greater than 1 in 1000. Patients consider aspects of outcome (quantity and quality of life) important, while doctors are concerned about "process" including the general nature of the procedure and consequences of the procedure for the patient's management. This study gives direction to medical practitioners concerning what it is that patient's are wanting to know during informed consent about a procedure.
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To review the clinical presentation and outcome of patients with spinal epidural abscess. ⋯ New spinal pain, radicular symptoms or signs, and a raised ESR were the most consistent early abnormalities in patients with a spinal epidural abscess. Diagnosis at an early clinical stage was associated with a better outcome.