Advice for surgeons

Advice for surgeons
* Prevent  iatrogenic disease. Beware of invasive investigations which may be expensive, dangerous, or unnecessary. Is the risk of the procedure worth taking? Would you carry out the same investigation on your self?
* How important is it to make the diagnosis? If it is academic do not cause your patients anxiety or discomfort, or expose them to risk.
* Avoid the attitude: "At least this won't cause any harm even if it does no good" When prescrbing drugs, treatment, or investigation. If it does no good, why do it at all?
* When discussing the prognosis with the patients or relatives be as honest as possible. Base your statements on your own experience, that of your seniors, and the relevant literature.
The "no-lose" philosophy has considerable potential for loss. Further, it may adversely influence decision-making and prevent the solution of clinical and ethical problems.

"The 'no-lose' philosophy in medicine."