G. Otto

The allocation of scarce resources is a basic problem in any society. As vital issues are concerned, organ transplantation is of particular importance. Aspects of utility and the deontological aspect of justice influence decisions in allocation. Usually more weight is given to justice than to utility. Chances and benefit for the individual patient are only in part congruent with the collective utility. Other issues – such as age and addiction – are usually not taken into consideration. Altogether, ethical principles are crucial for organ allocation whereas medical issues are of minor importance. The realisation of these principles is a normative task, which has to be solved by politicians. Therefore, organ allocation is finally a political issue.

Key words: allocation, organ transplantation, justice, utility

Prof. Dr. Gerd Otto

Abteilung für Transplantationschirurgie

Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz

Langenbeckstr. 1

D-55101 Mainz

E-mail: otto@bitte-keinen-spamtransplantation.klinik-uni-mainz.de

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