UK-based neurosurgeon suspended for physical relationship with patient, prescribing addictive drugs

Chirag Patel, a top UK-based neurosurgeon has been suspended after allegations emerged that he engaged in a sexual relationship with a female patient while also prescribing her addictive painkillers, as per reports.

Patel, a consultant at the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff, was reportedly given an eight-month suspension after admitting to the relationship and sending explicit images, as well as prescribing drugs including diazepam and opioid-based medication.  

Patel reportedly treated the woman first in February 2019 when he performed surgery to remove damaged spinal disc tissue. He later operated on her twice more  in August 2019 and December 2021 including a procedure to insert a spinal cord stimulator.

Shortly after the initial surgery, Patel began a sexual relationship with the patient, which continued during the course of her treatment. The relationship eventually broke down in 2023, after which the patient reported the matter to police, who then informed the Cardiff and Vale University Health Board.

Patel reportedly told the panel he feared the relationship becoming public could destroy the career he had “worked so hard to obtain”. He said he felt pressured and panicked, admitting that he now “bitterly regrets” not ending the relationship earlier and informing his employer.

As per reports, he also claimed the patient had demanded money and threatened to report him, alleging she asked for £11,000, after which he offered £5,000 from his savings. However, despite defence arguments that Patel had been influenced by threats and blackmail, the tribunal concluded his behaviour represented a serious and prolonged breach of professional standards.

Cardiff and Vale University Health Board reportedly confirmed Patel is no longer employed by the organisation.