Abstract

The presentation of the case of a patient who, in a document made with full mental faculties, makes the decision that, in the event of suffering an alteration in his health that prevents him from giving informed consent, he subrogates this power to his older brother. Ten years after signing this surrogacy, he suffers from a severe psychiatric disorder, and the treating physician proposes that he undergo stereotactic surgery that could benefit him. His entire family accepts the recommendation of the treating physician, except for the older brother, who considers that if his brother could express an autonomous decision, he would not consent to this procedure. The treating physician decides, based on the authorization of the other siblings and despite the conflict raised, to perform the surgery that he considers to be the best option for the patient.

The case is analyzed from the ethical principle of respect for autonomy.