How suspect device got surgeon group's blessing

Last May, as controversy mounted over a surgical device called the power morcellator, a professional association for surgeons issued a report defending the tool. A month earlier, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration had warned the device risked spreading cancer in surgeries such as hysterectomies. But the May report, from the AAGL—formerly known as the American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists—said morcellation "remains safe when performed by experienced, high-volume surgeons." Doctors read the report closely for guidance on use of morcellators, which cut up and remove tissue through small incisions. What they didn't know: An AAGL executive officer who received consulting fees from a morcellator maker had weighed in before publication. [Subscription Required]