Abstract

In January 2014, Marlise MunÞoz was declared brain dead, and all life-sustaining treatment was withdrawn. Her organs ceased to function, causing the death of their unborn child, who was not yet viable. Should somatic support for MunÞoz have been continued until the child could be delivered and survive? The literature does provide some direction for improving favorable outcomes. Among the most important factors are the prompt diagnosis of brain death prior to the onset of biological degeneration; thorough evaluation of the baby regarding viability; a well-informed decision-making process with the family, ethics committee, and medical team; and the establishment of a multidisciplinary group to address the needs of the unborn child, including somatic support of the mother to delay the onset of biological decline.