A consultant urologist has been suspended from practice for twelve months after walking out of an operating theatre mid-surgery to answer a personal phone call, leaving a patient under anaesthesia on the table.
The shocking incident occurred at Royal Cornwall Hospital, where Dr. Omer Karim abandoned his surgical team and patient to take the call. The Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service (MPTS) found him guilty of serious professional misconduct.
A Breach of Trust and Protocol
During the tribunal, it was revealed that Dr. Karim left the theatre without ensuring adequate cover was in place for the vulnerable patient. This fundamental breach of medical ethics and safety protocols prompted a full investigation by the General Medical Council (GMC).
The tribunal heard evidence that the surgeon's actions created a "serious and unwarranted" risk to patient safety. Such behaviour represents a clear deviation from the standards expected of all medical professionals within the NHS.
Twelve-Month Suspension and Future Practice
Imposing the suspension, the tribunal noted the severity of the misconduct. Dr. Karim will be unable to practice for a year, after which his case will be reviewed. The ruling serves as a stark reminder of the paramount importance of patient welfare above all else.
The NHS Trust has since implemented reinforced protocols regarding mobile phone use in critical clinical areas to prevent any recurrence of such an event.
