Mum operated on by shamed Scots surgeon Ian Paterson ‘not given safest treatment’, inquest hears

A mother-of-two who underwent surgery by shamed Scottish surgeon Ian Paterson was not informed about other medical experts’ concerns regarding the safety of the treatment, an inquest revealed. Christine Baker, a schoolteacher, died in 2015 after following Paterson’s advice to have a “skin-sparing” mastectomy in 2005. However, she saw her cancer return in 2007 and had to undergo a second mastectomy, as revealed by her husband Stephen Baker during the inquest. Mr. Baker described his late wife as a dedicated educator who put her students’ well-being first.

Paterson, currently serving a 20-year sentence for wounding, mentioned that he ceased performing his version of the “cleavage-sparing” operation once alerted by hospital leadership in 2007. The Bakers borrowed £12,000 for the 2005 operation, where Mrs. Baker underwent the reconstructive procedure despite her preference for a straightforward mastectomy without reconstruction. A nurse, described as a supporter of Paterson, influenced Mrs. Baker’s decision for reconstructive surgery.

The inquest heard that an MDT discussed the treatment plan, leading to confusion for the Bakers. Paterson recommended a course of action with a higher risk of local recurrence, contrasting the MDT’s suggestion to delay reconstruction until after the second mastectomy. Mr. Baker expressed unawareness of the differing opinions and highlighted the lack of information provided to them. A letter presented at the inquest revealed concerns about Paterson’s recommendation.

Reflecting on his late wife, Mr. Baker shared her resilience and compassion towards her students, remembering her bravery during her battle with cancer. Paterson, formerly based in Glasgow, worked at various healthcare facilities, including the Heart of England NHS Foundation Trust and private practices. The ongoing inquest aims to shed light on the circumstances surrounding Mrs. Baker’s treatment.

Insights and Summary:
The tragic case of Christine Baker highlights the importance of fully informed decision-making in medical treatments. The inquest’s revelations raise concerns about the transparency of information provided to patients and the need for patients to be aware of all available options and associated risks. Patients should feel empowered to ask questions and seek additional opinions to ensure their treatment aligns with their preferences and best interests. Healthcare providers must prioritise patient safety and clear communication to prevent similar instances of inadequate care. The outcome of this inquest could potentially lead to improvements in patient care protocols and accountability within the healthcare system.