Ethical and Legal Dilemmas in Prolonged Physiologic Support After Brain Death in Previable Pregnancy

Publication Title

Journal of Law, Medicine, and Ethics

Authors

• April R. Dworetz, Emory University School of MedicineFollow
• Allison M. Whelan, Georgia State University College of LawFollow
• Ashley Waddell Tingstad, Wayne State University Law SchoolFollow
• Kara B. Markham, University of Cincinnati College of MedicineFollow
• DonnaMaria E. Cortezzo, University of Connecticut School of MedicineFollow

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

Fall 2026

Abstract

Providing physiologic support to a brain-dead pregnant decedent poses complex ethical, legal, and clinical challenges. Understanding these considerations is necessary to navigate complex discussion and provide appropriate medical care. We use a theoretical case to examine these considerations and outline a path forward.

Recommended Citation

April R. Dworetz, Allison M. Whelan, Ashley Waddell Tingstad, Kara B. Markham, & DonnaMaria E. Cortezzo, Ethical and Legal Dilemmas in Prolonged Physiologic Support After Brain Death in Previable Pregnancy, 54 J.L. Med. & Ethics 290 (2026).

Institutional Repository Citation

April R. Dworetz, Allison M. Whelan, Ashley W. Tingstad, Kara B. Markham & DonnaMaria E. Cortezzo, Ethical and Legal Dilemmas in Prolonged Physiologic Support After Brain Death in Previable Pregnancy, Faculty Publications By Year 3855 (2026)
https://readingroom.law.gsu.edu/faculty_pub/3855

DOI

10.1017/jme.2026.10260

Volume

54

Issue

3

First Page

290

Last Page

300