Doctor 'used ultrasound as sex aid'

A senior gynaecologist used hospital equipment for his own gratification in sex sessions with a vulnerable patient he was treating, a tribunal heard today.

Dr Euan Laird was meant to be treating the mother of two after she developed complications when he performed a caesarean on her, the General Medical Council was told.

But she became "besotted" with "the charming and flirtatious doctor" and the pair began a sexual relationship. Although the married patient hoped something would develop, it was alleged he was exploiting her sexually.

Their liaisons lasted six years, during which time his desires became extreme, the committee heard. In one sex session at a hospital in Banbury he used an ultrasound scanning machine to view his own sexual performance, the committee was told.

Laird, who is not present at the hearing and has since retired, denies serious professional misconduct, claiming no sex ever took place. The hearing continues.