The necktie, that traditional symbol of male medical authority, is under threat. Pressure is mounting for doctors to either pin their ties back to stop the spread of infection from flapping tie ends or get rid of them altogether.

Model of a modern doctor: no dangling tie and no nose ring

ULRIKE PREUSS/BMJ

Junior doctors are this week being asked to back a resolution saying that there is no longer a reason for doctors to wear ties while at work and while seeing patients.

Wearing a tie may enhance patients' satisfaction and confidence, say critics, but a dangling tie also substantially …