The Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT) in Brisbane has heard a doctor suspended in the state’s central region last month has been allowed to practise again under strict conditions.
Urologist Antonio Vega Vega is now arguing for those conditions to be removed.
Health authorities are investigating Dr Vega Vega for four surgeries dating back to 2011.
Dr Vega Vega was suspended from practice last month after he removed the wrong kidney from a patient but had his registration was renewed on Friday subject to strict conditions and he is allowed to practise under supervision.
The doctor’s legal counsel told QCAT yesterday the kidney operation was complex due to the patient’s abnormal anatomy and internal abrasions, and Dr Vega Vega had travelled to Brisbane in 2013 to discuss the procedure with several specialists.
He said there had been no indication when the patient was turned on her side during the operation, that her kidneys would shift.
The tribunal heard Dr Vega Vega initially chose to use keyhole surgery, instead of open surgery because it would be “less invasive”.
The Central Queensland Hospital and Health Service says it has not reinstated Dr Vega Vega and he will remain suspended until the completion of an external investigation.
The health service will not say when the investigation is due.
Dr Vega Vega is expected to appear again at QCAT on Friday, where he will argue the conditions placed on his medical licence should be removed.