The BrainStorm Podcast: Bioethics at the Bedside

Pestilence of Pain (Part 2): The Evolving Discourse in Pain Management

The second part of our discussion with Dr. Reider on opioid use, delving into the history of pain management through the ages and how that has influenced the current medical and social conversations about opiates, as well as suggestions on how the medical profession can better address opioid prescriptions, use, and risks with their patients.

The Pestilence of Pain (Part 1): Opioid Use and Dependence

In this two-part series, we dive deep into the bioethical issues surrounding the use of prescription opioids in the management of acute and chronic pain in the context of the ongoing opioid epidemic. In Part 1, we explore Dr. Travis Rieder's personal experience using opioids as a trauma patient to control his excruciating pain, the necessary role opioids play in pain management, and his insights into the patient experience through that process.

Facing the Unknown: Understanding Brain Death and What it Means

What is brain death? How is it different from being in a coma or just being unconscious? In this episode we are joined by Dr. Adam Barron, a neurointensivist, to tackle this challenging and oftentimes confusing issue. We talk about what brain death means, how it is defined medically and legally, and how to approach this very difficult topic with respect, dignity, and trust between patients, their families, and their physicians.

Who Am I? Navigating Donor Conception and Genetic Ancestry

In the world of 23AndMe and genetic testing, anyone can do a DNA test and trace their ancestry in a matter of weeks. In this week's double episode (specially featured for the holiday season), Anna Levin, JD, and Alex Malliaris, NP, share their professional thoughts and personal experiences as sperm donor children and siblings, discussing the impacts of ancestry testing on sperm donor privacy, health history, and family relationships.

Informed Consent and Awake Neurosurgery

In this episode we speak with Dr. Paul Ford, neuroethicist at the Cleveland Clinic, to discuss issues of intraoperative informed consent in awake neurosurgery. We also talk about how physicians should address consent with patients, patient autonomy and harm reduction.