ABSTRACT
Trying to assess the social, ethical, legal, and practice issues raised by a medical inno-
vation is not easy, as great uncertainty often surrounds the technology, how it might be
used in the clinic, and the responses of patients, professionals, and the public. Despite
the difficulties of trying to achieve a meaningful and realistic appraisal, it is a vitally
important task. If controversial new technologies are introduced into the clinic without
careful consideration of the issues they raise and if appropriate governance mechanisms
are not put in place in response, there is a real danger that public acceptance will be
low, resulting in poor uptake and a loss of trust in the integrity of the profession.
