ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF COMPUTER IMAGING IN COSMETIC SURGERY

BACKGROUND. Despite the growing popularity of computer imaging systems , it is not clear whether the medical and legal advantages of using su ch a system outweigh the disadvantages. OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this report is to evaluate these aspects, and provide some protective guid elines in the use of computer imaging in cosmetic surgery. METHODS. Th e positive and negative aspects of computer im aging from a medical an d legal perspective are reviewed. Also, specific issues are examined b y a legal panel. RESULTS. The greatest advantages are potential proble m patient exclusion, and enhanced physician-patient communication. Dis advantages include cost, user learning curve, and potential liability. CONCLUSION. Careful use of computer imaging should actually reduce on e's liability when all aspects are considered Recommendations for such use and specific legal issues are discussed. (C) 1998 by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, Inc.