Committee finds against Consultant Gynaecologist at Fitness to Practise inquiry

Two findings of poor professional performance have been made against a Consultant Gynaecologist, but he has been cleared of all other allegations at a Fitness to Practise inquiry.

Peter Van Geene was under investigation for hysterectomies he performed on four women at Aut Even Private Hospital in Kilkenny between 2009 and 2011.

Following nine days of hearings over a number of months, the fitness to practice committee made its findings this afternoon.

It found that Mr Van Geene did engage in poor professional performance in his treatment of Helen Cruise in that he failed to adequately explain to her the procedure, its associated risk and adverse consequences.

The Committee also found that Mr Van Geene communicated with her in an incorrect and inappropriate manner.

Mr Van Geene was cleared of 13 other allegations against Ms Cruise and three other anonymous patients.

The Medical Council will now consider what sanctions, if any will apply to Mr Van Geene.