Worf's injury sparks a medical debate.
Worf is badly injured in an accident in the cargo bay and left paralyzed. He is told that he will never walk again, and he asks Riker to help him commit ritual suicide, as his Klingon honor demands. Riker refuses, and Dr. Crusher turns to a new specialist, Dr. Toby Russell, who suggests an experimental procedure.
The episode is a serious exploration of medical ethics and cultural values. Crusher and Russell disagree about how much risk is acceptable, and Worf has to decide whether to accept the treatment. The story presents a debate that is not easily settled. It is a thoughtful hour that is remembered for the personal toll on Worf, and for the tensions between doctors.