2,000 women warned over fears of botched operations Experts are now reviewing the case notes for all women who were treated in the operating theatre by Mr Irvine since he joined the NHS trust in 2002. They are also reviewing a sample of cases from Mr Irvine's colposcopy patients and emergency care patients. A trust spokesman said officials had undertaken a "sample review" of 255 patients who received planned operative care from the specialist which "indicated some cause for concern over the treatment of 49 women and more serious cause for concern in the case of 17 women." The 17 include two women who died, but it is not known whether poor care contributed to their deaths. Dr Chris Palin, the trust's medical director said patients who suffered complications after an operation were "highly likely" to have been aware of the fact straight away and to have had further treatment to put matters right at the time. However, one patient who is considering legal action said she only became aware of damage to her kidney three months after a hysterectomy, after undergoing blood tests in the autum of 2011 which indicated the problems. Dr Palin said: "It's important that we review all the relevant patient notes to check whether anything went wrong, to acknowledge any mistakes that may have happened, and - if necessary - to apologise and to put things right." He said all surgery involved risk and not all complications were the result of sub-standard care. Solicitor Cynthia Marshall, from Irwin Mitchell, who is representing a number of women treated by the medic, said: "We have already heard first-hand of concerns raised regarding this and our clients, other patients and their families will all be desperate for answers over the issues identified in relation to Mr Irvine's care. Patient safety should always be the top priority and it is vital that this review provides comprehensive answers and information regarding the issues identified, as well as clear steps as to how lessons can be learned from these problems. Many women will be scared and worried by this news and we would urge anyone with concerns to contact the information line which has been set up. By getting in touch, they could play an important part in supporting this review and the ongoing inquiries in relation to it. NHS Helpline number: 0800 044 5272.