Conflict of consent for post mortem organs donation in Brazil

Abstract

Given the refinement in surgical, immunogenetic and pharmacotherapeutic techniques fostered by medicine in the last few decades, organ and tissue transplantation has become a real possibility and an essential alternative towards the extension and quality of human life. This study aimed to analyze the consent for post mortem organ and tissue removal in Brazilian law, from the perspective of the authorization of the family. A qualitative methodological approach was adopted, using literature and legislative reviews, and allowing a deeper insight into the meanings, motives, aspirations, beliefs, values and attitudes surrounding the subject. Results showed that, in the current Transplant Act, and in the event of a confrontation between the will of the donor and the family’s wishes, personality rights and the principle of freedom of choice are underestimated at the expense of the prevailing monopoly of the family decision-making process. In view of the organ shortages faced by the country, the solution that is most consentaneous to justice would be to tailor the dispositions of the Transplant Act to those of the Civil Code. It would be suitable to take the existing wording in Article 4 of Law 9,434/97 and to include the duly documented expression of the donor’s will before death. Public awareness and information about the humanitarian nature of organ donation are likewise important as measures aimed at discussing the principle of solidarity for an organ donation policy.