California hospitals, docs accused of lucrative spine surgery scam. They're accused of using cheap knock-off implants, raking in millions.

Man sues after waking from colonoscopy wearing pink panties. The patient worked for the surgery center as an orderly at the time.

"Predictable complication" caused Joan Rivers' death. NYC medical examiner's report cites respiratory arrest, brain damage.

Chewing gum before surgery shown to be safe. Don't cancel cases if patients show up smacking, say researchers.

Hospital restores 'butt-slapping' surgeon's privileges. Is hospital more focused on its bruised bottom line?

Viscot Medical acquires OP Marks. Makers of surgical marking devices and patient safety products join forces.

BD and CareFusion to merge. Merger will create global leader in medication management and patient safety solutions.

The death of Joan Rivers: What went wrong???Lessons learned from an endoscopy that was anything but routine.

Flood damage will close Michigan Surgical Hospital. 5 inches of rain in as many hours caused extensive damage this summer.

DISC Spine Center teams with Surgical Care Affiliates. SCA will take over business ops for the innovative surgical program.

The Surgeons' Lounge: Blog review A Scrubs Life

Can We Predict the Quality of Recovery?

Patient sues, but facility, physicians not liable for tooth loss. Patient had poor dental health and clenched on bite block after procedure.

No one noticed and no alarms sounded when tourniquet deflated. Lawsuit: Bolus dose of lidocaine caused patient to code on OR table.

Medical assistant sues Anesthesia Group for firing her for being Muslim. Employer denies allegations, cites failure to report missing Demerol as reason for firing.

Train surgeons and staff on electrosurgery safety with FUSE. New program aims to prevent OR fires, improve device safety.

Patients describe their anesthesia awareness. It may be on the decline, but 3 women share their stories in a new article.

Outpatient Surgery announces the 2014 OR Excellence Award Winners. The 7 category winners represent the best in surgery.

Live streaming vitals on Google Glass may improve awareness, safety. New study suggests that wearable technology offers benefits in surgery.

Source: Spontaneous bopsy caused Joan Rivers to stop breathing. Doc who performed it said to be part of her entourage.