Following the publication of the outcome of recent High Court proceedings relating to breast surgeon Mr Amir Bhatti, County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust is reminding patients and families about the support available and providing an update on breast care services today.
Earlier this month, the High Court rejected Mr Bhatti’s attempt to overturn restrictions introduced by the Trust following patient safety concerns.
The court heard that the restrictions were introduced in February 2025 following patient safety concerns linked to the Trust’s breast surgery review. The restrictions were later widened to prevent him carrying out any clinical work.
In its judgment, the court found there was “no serious issue” with our decisions, which it said were based on patient safety concerns and ongoing reviews. Mr Bhatti was also ordered to pay legal costs.
We understand that media coverage of the outcome may cause further distress for patients, families and colleagues affected by the breast services review. We are very sorry for the worry and upset this has caused and will continue to provide support to patients and their families.
Patients and families can contact the Trust’s dedicated support team on 0191 333 2126 or by emailing cddft.
We are also focussing efforts on providing safe, high-quality care for patients and continuing the improvements made within breast services over the past year.
This has included stronger oversight of services, closer working with specialist teams, and continued independent review and support.
Recent data has shown improved results across several important areas of breast care at the Trust, including:
We remain committed to being open and transparent, supporting affected patients and families and continuing to improve services for our communities.