Stimulating debate: ethics in a multidisciplinary functional neurosurgery committee

J Med Ethics. 2006 Feb;32(2):106-9. doi: 10.1136/jme.200X.013151.

Abstract

Multidisciplinary healthcare committees meet regularly to discuss patients' candidacy for emerging functional neurosurgical procedures, such as Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS). Through debate and discussion around the surgical candidacy of particular patients, functional neurosurgery programs begin to mold practice and policy supported both by scientific evidence and clear value choices. These neurosurgical decisions have special considerations not found in non-neurologic committees. The professional time used to resolve these conflicts provides opportunities for the emergence of careful, ethical practices simultaneous with the expansion of therapy applications.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Attitude of Health Personnel
  • Caregivers / psychology
  • Deep Brain Stimulation / ethics
  • Ethics Committees, Clinical / ethics*
  • Family
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Neurosurgery / ethics*
  • Parkinsonian Disorders / psychology
  • Parkinsonian Disorders / surgery
  • Patient Care Team / ethics*
  • Postoperative Care