What this means in a clinic conversation
Complication describes a problem in the course of care rather than a routine administrative inconvenience. Before a procedure, ask how problems will be recognized, assessed and managed.
A question to bring
Who evaluates a possible complication, including outside regular clinic hours?
Open the visit checklist →Related and commonly confused terms
Sources and editorial context
This definition was compiled from the sources below and has not received independent clinical review. It supports understanding and consultation preparation.
- NCI Dictionary: complication · National Cancer InstituteReference checked 2026-10-02