The Choices We Make: Ethical Challenges in Trauma Surgery

Authors

• Pranit N. Chotai
• Marie D. Kuzemchak
• Mayur B. Patel
• Catherine Hammack-Aviran, Belmont University College of LawFollow
• Bradley M. Dennis
• Stephen P. Gondek
• Oscar D. Guillamondegui
• Keith G. Meador
• Kenneth A. Wallston
• Heidi Chen
• Allan B. Peetz

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

7-2022

Abstract

This study investigates ethical dilemmas encountered by trauma surgeons in clinical practice. Through qualitative interviews with trauma surgeons, the authors identify common ethical challenges arising in high-stakes emergency care environments. Participants reported dilemmas involving resource allocation, treatment futility, patient autonomy, and conflicts between patient welfare and broader systemic considerations. Many surgeons expressed uncertainty about how best to navigate these dilemmas and described relying on professional judgment, interdisciplinary consultation, and institutional ethics resources. The study highlights the prevalence of ethical complexity in trauma surgery and underscores the need for enhanced ethics education and institutional support mechanisms.

Recommended Citation

Pranit Chotai, Marie Kuzemchak, Mayur Patel, Catherine Hammack-Aviran, Bradley Dennis, Stephen Gondek, Oscar Guillamondegui, Keith Meador, Kenneth Wallston, Heidi Chen, & Allan Peetz, The Choices We Make: Ethical Dilemmas in Trauma Surgery, 172 Surgery 1: 453-9 (2022).