A hospital that could merge with Epsom has launched a review into the work of a consultant who has treated hundreds of children since 2002.

Following concerns about the work of consultant paediatrician Dr Nic Driver, the Royal Surrey County Hospital in Guildford announced on Friday, that it would review the case notes of 569 child patients he treated for epilepsy or related conditions.

The review was launched on the recommendation of independent experts in paediatric neurology, the British Paediatrics Neurology Association and the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health.

The trust has refused to reveal the exact nature of the concerns until the review has been completed.

The affected patients have been written to by the trust, which has also contacted all of Dr Driver’s other patients to reassure them the review does not affect them.

Medical director, Dr Christopher Tibbs, said: "As soon as concerns were raised we instigated an initial internal review with two external experts.

"As a result of that review and external recommendations we have now commenced a full review of Dr Driver’s patients with epilepsy or a related condition.

"Our priority now is to ensure that the case notes review is concluded as quickly as possible and that we ensure that the patients affected receive the ongoing care and support they need.

"It is not possible to comment any further on the possible outcome of the review and we must now focus all our efforts on a quick conclusion to the review and that patients are informed of the outcome and the next steps.

"All the patients concerned have been written to and we have set up a dedicated helpline for them to ensure that we can respond to and deal with any concerns or queries they may have."

Chief Executive Nick Moberly said: “It is important to stress that the review is to establish the facts of what may or may not have happened, but I am very aware of the concern this review will cause and mine and our absolute priority is to provide as much support as possible for patients and families through this difficult time.

“We will write to the patients affected again by the end of August with an update on the progress of the review.”

An additional helpline has been set up for any members of the public who would like to discuss this issue: 01483 408379. There is also information available on the hospital’s website: www.royalsurrey.nhs.uk/review