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An otolaryngologist who allegedly performed genital exams and drew images on the bodies of anesthetized patients without their consent will retain her medical license and be allowed to continue practicing under several terms and conditions set by the New Mexico Medical Board.
According to a notice of contemplated action issued in April, Twana Sparks, MD (pictured), was accused of performing genital exams on "many" male ear, nose and throat patients while they were under anesthesia without obtaining their written consent, the Silver City Sun-News reports. This behavior allegedly went on for "many years up to and including at least July 17, 2007." She's also been accused of writing messages or drawing images on anesthetized patients' bodies during ENT surgeries at Gila Regional Medical Center without obtaining their written consent. Dr. Sparks did not request a hearing with the state medical board but instead reportedly signed an agreed order last month — in which she denied the charges — that allows her to retain her license and her right to practice under several conditions. For example:
Dr. Sparks requested leave from Gila Regional Medical Center in August but has since returned to work there. A spokeswoman for the center says the facility conducted an investigation into the accusations against Dr. Sparks but legally cannot comment on it. "We are aware of the New Mexico Medical Board's investigation and recommendations and that we trust they have acted in the manner they feel is best," the spokeswoman said. Calls for comment to Dr. Sparks's office and her Albuquerque attorney, Deborah Solove, were not returned.
Photo: Sparks Ear, Nose and Throat Clinic
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