Are Arthroscopic PCL Avulsion Fixation and its Long Learning Curve Morally Justified When Other Surgical Approaches are Valid? An Ethical Issue in Surgical Research

Abstract

There are controversial disputes regarding the ethical concerns for arthroscopic posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) avulsion fixation accompanied by various complications and difficulties. Firstly, this procedure maintains long learning curve, and it is still in a cast of dilemma if this procedure is justified, when a surgeon should undergo a considerable time and efforts in order to acquire enough experience regarding this novel procedure. Secondly, when stable fixation is not achieved, one may need to shift to open surgery; the issue arises when surgeon terminates the surgery just with somewhat fixation because he does not want to demonstrate any sign of weakness regarding his surgical skills. And finally, there are specific considerations that should be taken into account in the informed consent for an innovative surgery. Here the study discusses these terms in the faiths of fashioning a catalyst for further discussions.