Channel 4 Surgery Show To Court Controversy

Channel 4 is to court controversy later this year, with a new programme investigating the use of hypnosis as an alternative to anaesthetic in surgery – including a live hernia operation using the technique.

The broadcaster has commissioned Zig Zag productions to create HypnoSurgery Live, with the programme designed to be “a serious scientific investigation” into the alternative medicine.

The two hour show, due to screen on the broadcaster’s adult-orientated entertainment channel More4, will feature the live operation alongside documentary content on the history and use of hypnosis in surgery.

Channel 4’s latest shocking medical show follows its infamous broadcast of a live autopsy in 2003 (see ITC Dismisses Complaints Against Channel 4’s Public Autopsy), as well as a series featuring in-depth dissection of the human body in 2004 (see Channel 4 To Screen Decomposing Human Body), both of which drew complaints but were given the green light by watchdogs.

The programme is sure to spark debate, although Channel 4 defends the show as a legitimate documentary, stating: “The use of hypnotism in surgery has a long history. During the early days of ether, surgeons often used the technique to accompany their crude anaesthetic. In the 21st Century, these ideas are being re-visited.”

The broadcaster claims an increasing number of healthcare professionals are using hypnosis to help patients relax before surgery, and that hypnotherapy in the dentist chair is on the increase.

Louisa Bolch, commissioning editor for science at Channel 4, said: “I’m extremely excited about the programme. It highlights our continuing commitment to using bold, staged events which examine serious science in primetime.”

Channel Four: 020 7396 4444 www.channel4.com