Conflict of interest in medical research and development.

The introduction of laparoscopic cholecystectomy via nontraditional methods opened Pandora's box regarding issues of cost effectiveness, diagnostic need, safety, and efficacy. This article discusses one of many ethical concerns related to new-procedure introduction, conflict of interest in medical research and development. Conflict of interest is defined and suggestions of how to implement conflict of interest rules are discussed. As new procedures and modalities continue to be introduced at a rapid rate, it will be important to manage them appropriately.