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Inquiry into malpractice of rogue breast surgeon to publish findings today

An inquiry into the malpractice of rogue breast surgeon Ian Paterson is expected to make recommendations on regulations around surgeons working in private hospitals after it publishes its findings in a report today.

Paterson carried out unnecessary operations in both NHS and private hospitals, after exaggerating and inventing breast cancer risks. When he operated on women who did have cancer, he put them at increased risk of relapse due to using a technique which left much of the breast tissue behind. He also claimed payments for more expensive procedures. Employed by the Heart of England NHS Foundation Trust (HEFT), he also had practising privileges in the independent sector at Spire Little Aston and Spire Parkway in Birmingham.

In 2017 the consultant breast surgeon was jailed for 20 years at Nottingham Crown Court after he was found guilty 17 counts of wounding patients with intent.

A public inquiry has been investigating the circumstances surrounding Paterson's malpractice and the wider lessons that can be learnt about private healthcare, and is due to publish its findings today.

It is hoped the report will include recommendations to strengthen the regulatory system in order to prevent such prolonged abuse from happening again in the future.