Controversy, alternatives, and decisions in complying with the legal doctrine of informed consent.

The complexities involved in conforming with the legal doctrine of informed consent at present are seemingly limitless. This communication is designed to acquaint the physician attempting to comply with this legal doctrine with an experience gained during the last four years. The major points are aimed at the most frequently asked questions and decisions involved in its implementation. An alternative approach to the question of how and whom to inform is provided, which may make the task easier for those seeking to inform their patients.