Wouldn't bartering actually make slaves of many people?

Certain people I know say if we were on a barter system instead of capitalism it would be more fair and better for everyone, really? I can see instances where bartering can virtually make someone a bond slave. How long would it take some one to pay off a brain surgeon for his services curing you of a tumor? How long would you be indebted to the lawyer that drafted the corporation papers for your business, or the guy/gal who did your taxes? And how would the government run with out taxes? They can’t barter that. What would happen if someone broke a barter agreement? In a barter situation of the principal could not equal the debt upon their death would it shift to the next of kin, kids or some other family member? As messy and unequal as capitalism can be isn’t it the best way to keep thing clean and orderly?