At the Frontier: The Ethics of Innovative Surgery

This is a past event

A Neuroethics Seminar Series Event

All modern surgical techniques were once new, so the ethics of surgical innovation is not a new topic. But as our understanding of the brain advances, so does our ability to surgically treat disorders such as epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, and possibly even depression. Increasingly, we must consider whether innovation in brain surgery poses any special ethical challenges.

Since alterations in the brain have the potential to alter cognition, personality, and even the sense of self, do surgical innovations require special ethical consideration? Should “invasiveness” matter ethically, or do we simply weigh risks against benefits? Should we have distinct policy or regulation regarding neurosurgical innovation? Do patients contemplating such innovations require special protections?

Panel:

Co-sponsors:

With funding from: