Reversibility of neurotechnological interventions: conceptual and ethical issues

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Bioethics
• Medical Technology

Background:

• Neurotechnologies offer interventions for neurological and psychiatric disorders, with some considered reversible.
• The term "reversibility" is ambiguously defined and inconsistently applied, creating ethical risks for patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically analyze the definition and application of "reversibility" in neurotechnological interventions.
• To propose a framework for improving informed consent procedures regarding the reversibility of these interventions.

Main Methods:

• Categorization of reversibility into ontological, methodological, and ethical dimensions.
• Analysis of the limitations and problems associated with each category in clinical settings.

Main Results:

• Ontological reversibility includes structural, functional, and psychological aspects.
• Methodological reversibility considers current and future methods.
• Ethical reversibility encompasses autonomy, well-being, and harm.

Conclusions:

• Existing classifications of reversibility present challenges in clinical application.
• A "practical reversibility" perspective is proposed to enhance informed consent.
• Clarifying patient needs regarding reversibility is crucial for ethical neurotechnology implementation.