Abstract
Life support technologies have the potential to save many lives. However, in some cases – particularly when disease is advanced or incurable – the use of these interventions may simply prolong the dying process while causing significant pain and suffering. The ethical basis for withdraw of life support has been clearly elucidated in medical ethics and the law, but given the emotions surrounding these issues, it is not surprising that controversy still exists. This review discusses withdrawal of life support and withdrawal of artificial nutrition. Additionally, this review explores medical futility, including the historical background, futility and the law, focus on process: hospital futility policies and ethics committees, and current practice and the future of medical futility. Illustrative case reports are presented. The table lists some examples of responding to requests for non-beneficial care from patients or surrogates. This review contains 1 figure, 3 tables, and 27 references. Key Words: Withdrawal of life support; Withdrawal of care; Medical futility
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