Ethnography of a removal of organ

Journal/Book: Sci Sociales Sante. 1997; 15: 127 Ave de La Republique, 92120 Montrouge, France. John Libbey Eurotext Ltd. 21-33.

Abstract: The grafting of human organs is an extreme and particular form of therapeutics. It requires a perfect tissular compatibility between donor and receiver, the how-know of a highly specialized medico-surgical team and logistics adapted to the transport of the organs. However, these technical conditions are not sufficient for the graft to be successfull. The primordial, inevitable preliminary requirement is the removal of the organs from the body of the donor. How are these organs obtained? How and by whom are the families of the deceased contacted? How does the biomedical team manage such a difficult context? Our study was carried out through observant participation, that is by following all the various steps established to lead to a removal of organs from a donor in an emergency and reanimation unit. Field work lasted six months during which, besides observation of the hospital context, interviews were carried out with persons personnally or professionally involved in the procedure. This research has allowed us to point out the various psyche-social factors present in the procedure, often kept secret, but however a very important part of our biomedical practice.

Note: Article Boileau C, Univ Bordeaux 2, 14 Rue Jacques Prevert, F-40800 Aire sur Adour, FRANCE

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