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John D. Lantos, MD; Arthur F. Kohrman, MD
The University of Chicago (Ill)

JAMA. 1989;262(9):1183.

	Since this article does not have an abstract, we have provided the first 150 words of the full text PDF and any section headings.

To the Editor. —

In the March 10 issue of JAMA, Starzl et al¹ and Williams et al² describe a daring experimental procedure with potential efficacy for the treatment of a variety of otherwise fatal pediatric gastrointestinal problems. Starzl et al report the animal data that encouraged their group to experiment on humans. Williams et al report that, although the patients died, "the technical aspects of the procedure were tested and the feasibility of the procedure established."

Goldsmith³ describes the visceral transplantation procedures as "experimental operations" that have led to modifications in both the procedure and the patient populations for which it is considered. Moore,⁴ in an accompanying editorial, describes three ethical considerations that should precede decisions to continue such research: only centers with adequate laboratory background, adequate clinical experience, and willingness to report results should proceed with such surgery.

Neither article mentions institutional review board . . . [Full Text PDF of this Article]

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