The inquest into the death of Christine Baker, a patient of the imprisoned surgeon Ian Paterson, has shed light on troubling surgical practices that may have contributed to her cancer’s recurrence. Baker, who passed away in 2015 at the age of 59, underwent multiple surgeries by Paterson, who is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence for wounding related to his medical procedures. This inquiry marks the third of 62 investigations into the outcomes of Paterson’s surgeries.
During the recent hearings in Birmingham, Paterson asserted that he had completely removed all breast tissue during Baker’s initial mastectomy. He contended that any remaining tissue was irrelevant for patients undergoing immediate reconstruction.
The inquiry previously revealed that Baker had a second mastectomy two years after her initial surgery when her cancer returned.
Paterson was affiliated with the Heart of England NHS Foundation Trust and also worked in private practice at Spire Parkway and Spire Little Aston. Testimony indicated that Baker underwent a skin-sparing mastectomy in 2005, based on advice suggesting no additional risk to reconstructive outcomes.
When questioned about his intent regarding residual breast tissue during reconstructive surgery, Paterson dismissed concerns as “nonsense,” insisting that reconstruction would provide all necessary tissue.
The inquest also reviewed a pathology report stating that the tumor reached the excision margin, raising questions about whether it had been entirely removed. When confronted with this information, Paterson denied any implication that his surgical technique was inadequate.
He emphasized that the amount of tissue removed—209 grams—was appropriate for someone with a 34B-cup breast and described it as a “small amount” relative to typical breast weight, which averages 350 grams.
Paterson maintained that the success of the operation is not determined by weight but by the completeness of the procedure itself.
The inquiry continues as scrutiny intensifies around Paterson’s surgical methods and their implications for patient safety and care standards.
As further hearings unfold, they may prompt broader discussions about surgical practices and patient oversight within both NHS and private healthcare settings. The findings could potentially catalyze reform aimed at preventing similar tragedies in the future.
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