Patients should be informed of all serious risks, however infrequent, so that they can weigh up the potential benefits against the material risks for themselves. Ideally a practitioner should explain the potential benefits and risks associated with these, including the option of either doing nothing or suggesting any alternatives.
In modern medicine it is best practice to explain the investigative and therapeutic options available to patients, so that they can take an active role in decisions about their management along with health professionals.
