Anencephalic newborns as organ donors

Abstract

"This article is based on discussions about the use of anencephalic newborns’ organs in transplantation therapies. Anticipation of the anencephalic fetuses birth is widely discussed in relation to its ethics. Some argue that the anencephalic fetus has a brain malformation and preservation of life during pregnancy is only possible by accessing the umbilical cord. Others argue that, as long as there is a functioning brain stem, the diagnosis of fetal death is not permitted. The question is that the removal of organs, only after brain death confirmation, may cause damage to the organs to be used. Cardiovascular and respiratory functions deteriorate gradually and cause ischemic injury to the organs to be transplanted, making them unusable. We conclude that these issues need a wide debate and that there is a necessity to create new legislation that will help to solve ethical dilemmas."