Baby Joseph Maraachli ("Baby Joseph") has been transferred to the Cardinal Glennon Hospital in St. Louis where he presumably will receive a tracheostomy (aka tracheotomy) that will possibly allow him to breath on his own until he dies from his underlying disease. The case has gotten international attention, as the issues raised go well beyond the usual arguments over health care financing. This poll is not about health care financing. The simple question is whether based on what you have read or know about Baby Joseph's condition, should he get a tracheostomy on the prospect that it may allow him to breath on his own, regardless of how short that time might be. A Wikipedia link is provided for reference: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joseph_Maraachli_case
John
Edit: Let me try to clarify my question. It is not a question of whether from a medical practice standpoint Joseph should get a tracheostomy. This forum is not for the practice of medicine. The question assumes that tracheostomy is a legitimate palliative alternative and asks should the parents' decision with respect to it be respected.
John
Edit: Let me try to clarify my question. It is not a question of whether from a medical practice standpoint Joseph should get a tracheostomy. This forum is not for the practice of medicine. The question assumes that tracheostomy is a legitimate palliative alternative and asks should the parents' decision with respect to it be respected.
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