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At a glance

A further seven inquests have been opened into patients treated by the rogue breast surgeon, Ian Paterson.

The deaths of 650 patients who were under his care are currently being investigated by coroners in Birmingham.

Paterson is currently serving a 20-year jail term for wounding with intent after carrying out unnecessary breast procedures.

A 2020 independent inquiry ruled "a culture of avoidance and denial" left him free to perform botched operations in NHS and private hospitals in Birmingham and Solihull.

Dating back to 2020, coroners have now opened 27 inquests.

These are cases where coroners "believe there is evidence to have reason to suspect that some of those deaths may be unnatural".

Among those announced on 24 March in the latest tranche of inquests is Shena Mason.

The 75-year-old died in January 2014, after tumours had returned to the site of her original breast cancer.

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