TY  -  JOUR
AU  -  Motta, Micaela
AU  -  Loganadane, Gokoulakrichenane
AU  -  De Sanctis, Rita
AU  -  Alterio, Daniela
AU  -  Cocchi, Alessandra
AU  -  De Stefani, Agostina
AU  -  Lozza, Laura
AU  -  Allajbej, Albina
AU  -  Franceschini, Davide
AU  -  Laudati, Antonio
AU  -  Piccolo, Federica
AU  -  Tomasini, Davide
AU  -  Bettoni, Francesca
AU  -  Burgazzi, Eleonora
AU  -  Albanese, Ilaria
AU  -  Anzellini, Dimitri
AU  -  Arcangeli, Stefano
T1  -  Informed consent in radiotherapy: 
lessons from Italian case law for daily clinical practice
PY  -  2026
Y1  -  2026-11-01
DO  -  10.1701/4802.48275
JO  -  Recenti Progressi in Medicina
JA  -  Recenti Prog Med
VL  -  117
IS  -  11
SP  -  505
EP  -  511
PB  -  Il Pensiero Scientifico Editore
SN  -  2038-1840
Y2  -  2026/11/04
UR  -  http://dx.doi.org/10.1701/4802.48275
N2  -  Summary. Background. Informed consent is a fundamental paradigm in medicine, yet radiotherapy presents unique challenges due to technical complexity and delayed side effects. Following Italian Law 219/2017, consent has evolved into a constitutional right. This study analyzes recent Italian case law to synthesize evidence-based recommendations for clinical radiotherapy practice. Methods. A qualitative, doctrinal legal research design examined judicial decisions from 2017 to 2025. Records were retrieved from Italian judicial databases using keywords including “informed consent” and “radiotherapy”. Inclusion criteria focused on radiotherapy procedures, consent disputes, and detailed judicial reasoning. Results. Eight court decisions and one guideline met inclusion criteria, revealing a shift from contractual obligation to a constitutional right (Articles 2, 13, and 32). Courts established a dual liability framework: “self-determination violation” (automatic liability for failure to inform) and “health damage” (requiring proof the patient would have refused treatment). Disclosure obligations now strictly mandate discussing late effects, rare complications, and alternatives. Notably, in one case failure to discuss surgical alternatives resulted in significant financial damages. Conclusions. Compliance now prioritizes clear communication and verification of patient comprehension over mere form-signing. To mitigate liability and protect rights, oncologists must enhance disclosure regarding late toxicities and treatment alternatives.
ER  -