THE CONSULTANT surgeon for breast reconstruction at Barnsley hospital has been suspended amid allegations she ‘botched’ an operation.

Puvaneswary Markandoo was responsible for all reconstructive surgeries and outpatient appointments for women who have suffered breast cancer.

She was ordered to stop work last week and will be unable to treat any patients while an internal inquiry is carried out.

Another consultant has been asked to step in and take over.

Medical director David Hicks said: “I can confirm one of our surgeons at the hospital is, in line with national guidelines, currently excluded from working while we investigate concerns into their professional conduct.

“As this is the subject of investigation we are unable to comment any further at this time.” It is understood the allegations against Ms Markandoo relate to her performance both in and out of the operating theatre.

One woman who has suffered months of complications after undergoing surgery has been told her implants will need to be urgently removed.

She claims a member of hospital staff said Ms Markandoo had been suspended because ‘she was not doing her job properly’.

The patient, who does not want to be named, says she is aware of several other women who have had similar problems.

She said: “I've been through a bad enough time anyway, I don’t want any more operations, I'm scared and so stressed out by this.

“We all know the reconstruction isn't going to be perfect but what has happened is disgraceful.”