Ethics Involved in Simulation-Based Medical Planning

摘要

Computational biology, including simulation and modeling, is a burgeoning field with a recent influx of mathematicians, computer scientists, and engineers. With this recruitment, significant advancement has been made in numerous biological areas. However, as is the case in almost any rapidly evolving field, innovation can move beyond ethical considerations. We discuss one specific example of a simulation-based model that impacts surgical decision making on human patients. We then discuss a recent code of ethics for simulationists and its inadequacy in addressing issues relating to human subjects research. Finally, we recommend a system of validations for computational simulations involved in research applied to human subjects.