What is the common law position regarding the removal of body parts from a living person?

The common law position regarding the removal of body parts from a living person emphasizes that such removals can only be conducted for therapeutic purposes. This principle is anchored in the necessity to protect individuals' bodily integrity and autonomy. Medical professionals must ensure that any intervention aimed at removing body parts is primarily intended to treat a medical condition or improve the patient's health status. This creates a fundamental ethical standard in medical practices that prioritizes the well-being and consent of patients.

Consent is indeed a critical aspect of any medical procedure; however, the focus here is on the purpose behind the removal of body parts, which is specifically restricted to therapeutic intentions under common law. The idea of non-therapeutic removals or aesthetic reasons raises ethical concerns regarding bodily autonomy and the potential for exploitation, making those options inconsistent with established medical ethics and legal standards. Thus, while consent is crucial, it is the therapeutic rationale that firmly aligns with common law principles governing such actions.