Neurosurgery and industry.

The primary purpose of the relationship between neurosurgery and industry must be to improve patient care and advance medical knowledge. This relationship is desirable and can be mutually beneficial. Strict adherence to established ethical and legal guidelines is necessary to avoid financial conflicts of interest that may occur between neurosurgery and industry. The Code of Ethics established by the American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS) in 1986 emphasizes the physician's responsibility to always act in the best interest of his or her patients. The AANS Guidelines for Corporate Relations were developed in 2004 to address the concern of the potential growing influence of industry in the activities of our neurosurgical organization. Recognizing a need to clarify the proper relationships between neurosurgeons and industry, Guidelines on Neurosurgeon-Industry Conflicts of Interest were recently established. The AANS is committed to the highest ethical and legal standards in future relations with our industry partners. Members of the AANS are encouraged to adhere to the voluntary guidelines established by our organization.