Top medical journal claims surgeons lack professionalism
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Surgeons belong to a "profession adrift" that is in urgent need of reform, a leading medical journal has claimed.
An editorial in The Lancet said little progress had been made since it raised concerns about the quality of some surgeons' research and practice a year ago. At the time, a framework of improvements was set out and surgeons were challenged to transform their field into a "world-class discipline".
In a special issue yesterday, the journal said it had returned to the theme of surgery to see what changes had taken place.
The editorial said: "Recent headlines in the UK suggest not so much a world-class discipline but a profession adrift."
It cited a recent report on cosmetic surgery in the UK, pointing out that only 47 per cent of 760 eligible centres agreed to participate in an audit. Among the units that replied, concerns rose over low-volume procedures, inadequately equipped operating theatres, anaesthetic cover, and emergency care provision.
"That such revelations must come from outside the surgical community implies a lack of professionalism and leadership among the surgeons involved," The Lancet said.
The editorial also criticised surgeons for not being more proactive in promoting better standards.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments