"To Inform of a Rare Opportunity in Japan..."
Movement to Withdraw Consent for Body Donation
A Japanese doctor who participated in a cadaver dissection training not only shared images of the dissected cadavers on social networking services (SNS) without any mosaic censorship but also posted commemorative photos taken with the cadavers in the background, sparking public outrage, local media including Japan's Nikkan Sports reported on the 25th.
Tokyo plastic surgeon Kuroda Aimi posted uncensored content from the anatomy training she received in Guam on the 29th of last month on her SNS. She wrote, "Now, going to dissect fresh cadavers! There are many heads." The released videos and photos showed dissected cadavers without any mosaic blurring. She even posted group commemorative photos posing with a V sign in front of the cadavers.
After receiving criticism for lacking professional ethics, Kuroda posted an apology on the 23rd and deleted all the photos and videos. She bowed her head and said, "I sincerely apologize for posting content that lacked ethical consideration as a doctor," adding, "I thought all the cadavers in the photos were mosaicked, but some were not. I am sorry for causing discomfort."
She further explained, "As a doctor, opportunities to practice dissection on fresh cadavers to improve anatomical knowledge and skills are very rare in Japan. I participated in this training to enhance patient satisfaction, and it was a very valuable opportunity. I posted because I wanted more doctors to know that such opportunities exist." She also repeatedly apologized, saying, "I sincerely thank the individuals who donated their bodies, their bereaved families, and the organizers of this training."
However, public anger did not subside. Some expressed that trust in doctors had declined because of Kuroda and there were movements to "withdraw consent for body donation." There were even voices within the local industry calling for Kuroda's dismissal.
Nevertheless, the director of the hospital where Kuroda works stated, "Although the post was clearly inappropriate, Kuroda participated in the Guam training to learn methods to treat patients more safely according to hospital policy," adding, "The dignity of the deceased is of course important, but the lives and safety of living people are also important." He continued, "I understand that the majority of Japanese people think (Kuroda) is crazy, but her intentions in posting were good and there was no other motive," and said he could not accept calls for her dismissal.
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
