Brain Surgery Cancelled Over ‘Dirty’ Instruments

A 12-hour brain operation was cancelled moments before it was due to start after doctors noticed surgical tools were not sterile. Alan Paterson, from Torphins, Aberdeenshire, was already lying on a trolley and wired up to monitors when surgeons noticed the three sets of non-sterile equipment.

A 30-strong team at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary had to be stood down because of the mistake on Tuesday. Mr Paterson has an acoustic neuroma – a form of brain tumour in the inner ear. The operation to remove it will now take place in May.

Mr Paterson said: “It is the most stressful thing I have gone through. Now I have to go through it again.”

NHS Grampian apologised, confirming that equipment in one tray could not be used because some of the items were marked. Two back-up trays were also unsuitable.

A statement issued by the health board said: “Clearly, surgery can’t go ahead if there is the slightest possibility of a risk of infection to the patient.”