Systematic ethical review approach for the disposal of implanted neural devices after testing

After the implantation of neural devices is completed, the devices may be removed, continued to operate, or left in place. Different approaches to disposal can lead to physical harm, psychological distress due to disruptions in human-machine interaction, and difficulties in making informed decisions regarding the proper course of action. Current ethical review processes fail to adequately address issues such as lack of specialized consideration for disposal options, insufficient professional expertise and experience among reviewers, absence of clear standards for decision-making, and challenges in ensuring that review procedures cover the entire disposal process. It is necessary to designate post-experiment disposal procedures as separate review subjects, improve mechanisms for providing additional professional knowledge and involving participants’ experiences, clarify the steps involved in disposal, and conduct case-by-case assessments with the input of participants. Additionally, it is essential to ensure accountability for the disposal procedures.