The free and informed consent form in high-risk surgeries: ethical and legal basis through a narrative literature review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.55892/jrg.v8i18.2151Keywords:
Informed Consent, High-Risk Surgery, Patient Autonomy, Medical Ethics, Civil LiabilityAbstract
This narrative literature review examines the ethical-legal foundations of the Informed Consent Term (ICT) in high-risk surgery, with a focus on regulatory requirements, communication challenges and their impact on professional liability. Sources include national and international academic databases and an analysis of Brazilian legislation (Federal Constitution/1988, Civil Code/2002, Medical Ethics Code/2010, and National Health Council Resolution no. 466/2012). Findings demonstrate that: (i) the adequacy of communication strategies is decisive for the validity of consent and the effectiveness of patient autonomy; (ii) informational failure is the predominant basis for medical- malpractice claims; and (iii) institutional protocols encompassing continuous training and systematic auditing of consent forms mitigate litigation and standardize care pathways. The study concludes that the ICT is not a mere formality but a dynamic tool for ethical dialogue and risk management, essential to integrate technical excellence, legal security and respect for patient dignity in complex surgical settings.
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References
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