Papworth Hospital carried out more than 5,550 heart surgeries in three years, more than anywhere else in the UK, a report has revealed.

The Society for Cardiothoracic Surgery (SCTS) figures, for between April 2010-13, also show the hospital has the lowest mortality rate.

There is a 98.5 per cent chance of surviving a major heart operation at the hospital.

Consultant surgeon John Dunning, who is also the director of surgery at Papworth Hospital, said: “These are excellent figures of which we are truly proud.

“Heart surgery at Papworth Hospital is a world-leading service and our results reflect the very high standards not only of our surgeons and anaesthetists, but also the nurses and other staff groups involved in delivering care to our patients.”

Dr Roger Hall, interim medical director of Papworth Hospital, said: “I am delighted that the team working between our heart surgeons, operating theatre staff, anaesthetists, intensive care unit and ward staff has led to these excellent outcomes for our patients.

“While there is no room for complacency, the mortality from heart surgery at Papworth is significantly lower than the national average.”