THE issue of HIV positive doctors performing operations was in the news in Britain last month when a HIV positive ear specialist was allowed to operate again. He had excluded himself from operations when it was discovered he had the virus two years ago.
Professor George Browning, a renowned ear specialist in Scotland, contracted the virus through gay sex. He revealed his condition after the results of a blood test were leaked to a tabloid newspaper.
The West Glasgow NHS Trust allowed Prof Browning to operate after he argued that a surgeon using long handled instruments could not infect a patient. He is expected to resume work before Christmas.
Prof Browning argued that it was foolish to deny patients his expertise when there was no practical likelihood of his transmitting HIV during ear operations which rely on long range techniques.
Patients will be informed of Prof Browning's condition and, if prepared to accept him, will be asked to sign a consent form.