Updated

A Colchester orthopedic surgeon charged with molesting several female patients is going on trial.

Dr. Joseph Abate, a longtime medical adviser to the University of Vermont, is charged with three counts of aggravated sexual assault and four counts of sexual assault. He allegedly used his hands to touch the genitals of patients suffering from hip problems and other ailments.

Last month, prosecutors dropped six counts of lewd and lascivious conduct. Jury selection on the remaining charges was scheduled for Wednesday, with testimony beginning Monday.

His lawyer, Eric Miller, says Abate's examinations were proper and that the allegations are a mistake.

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Information from: The Burlington Free Press, http://www.burlingtonfreepress.com