Anaesthetist disputes witness testimony at fitness-to-practice inquiry

A consultant anaesthetist has disputed the testimony of a witness at an inquiry into a gynaecologist’s fitness to practice.

Peter Van Geene is accused of Poor Professional Performance in his treatment of four women at Aut Even Hospital, Kilkenny.

Last Tuesday, Helen Cruise waived her right to anonymity to testify as to her treatment at the hands of Consultant Peter Van Geene.

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She said her life had been destroyed by a hysterectomy, which she claimed she did not fully understand she was consenting to.

Ms Cruise said she only signed a consent form in the operating theatre, after she had been prepped for surgery.

But this afternoon, anaesthetist Penugonda Prasad disputed that.

The softly-spoken consultant said consent was obtained before he administered the spinal anaesthetic.

Dr Prasad told the committee that he would never give an anaesthetic without seeing the consent form, but conceded that he was not present for the form being signed.

On Tuesday, Ms Cruise said Dr Van Geene had pointed to a bucket on the floor, saying: "That’s your womb".

Dr Prasad said he did not remember that.

He also said that Mr Van Geene was a good communicator, and treated patients courteously.

The inquiry continues.