Current Issues of Surgical Ethics and Deontology

Abstract

Surgery is a medically extraordinary procedure which is directly involved with the human body and in most cases, has a direct impact on the emotional and psychological state of the patient. Hence, technical skills are not enough for successful treatment. The ethical responsibility, professional integrity and respect based on the deontological principle still play an important role in the surgery. The article explores the ethical and deontological aspects of contemporary surgery and the significance of ethics in connection with surgeons, patients, relatives and medical colleagues. Special emphasis is paid to the moral characteristics to be developed during the surgeon's career: Responsibility, compassion, courage, self-discipline and respect for human dignity. The lessons to be learned from historical examples and reflections from famous doctors and scientists underscore that surgical excellence is not only about knowledge and technical skill but also about humanity and caring for the patient. The paper highlights the importance of the contribution of science, experience, ethics, and concern for the individual patient in surgical success.