THE Department of Health has been wise to obtain an interim injunction banning the sale and distribution of a video which shows NHS operations.

The cassette reveals intimate gynaecological surgery, open-heart operations and even penile and breast implants.

A full court hearing will be held on Wednesday, when the video-makers will be contesting the ban.

But Health Minister Gerry Malone thinks that the use of the material on the video is in direct conflict with the guidance that was issued on patient confidentiality to the NHS earlier this year.

And experts fear the video could frighten patients out of taking part in future training videos and some from even coming forward for surgical treatment at all.

The British Medical Association has branded it "deeply distasteful".

We cannot think of one good reason why it should be on sale to the general public.

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