THE Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital (RNOH) in Stanmore has suspended a hospital manager and launched an internal investigation after it was alleged that more than 300 patients had operations cancelled to cut waiting lists.

The hospital, a world leader in the treatment of spinal injuries, moved swiftly to suspend Stuart Coalwood from his position as acting director of commissioning at the end of May.

The decision was taken following concerns raised by a member of staff about possible irregularities in the management of waiting lists.

Hospital waiting lists play a crucial part in determining Government league table positions and performance ratings. Both can affect the level of funding received from primary care trusts, which commission hospital services.

A spokesman for the RNOH said: "We have identified that over the last year, approximately 300 patients have been taken off the waiting list mostly due to valid reasons. The investigation is now concentrating on the specific cases, and why each patient was removed from the list.

"If the investigation finds that any patient has been taken off the list inappropriately we will take immediate steps to offer them an early operation. A member of our staff has been suspended, pending the outcome of this investigation."

Chief executive Andrew Woodhead said: "We take any allegation that waiting lists are being manipulated very seriously."

Mr Coalwood was reported in the national press as saying: "Waiting lists have fallen in line with national figures. I am suspended.

"There is an investigation. I have no further comment."