Anxious wait for 200 hip operation patients in NI

Around 200 people in Northern Ireland who have had hip replacements may be facing further surgery after a hip implant was withdrawn on safety grounds.

The ASR hip system, by the US company DePuy Orthopaedics, is used worldwide.

So far in the Republic, 12 patients have reported problems.

A spokesperson for the Belfast Health Trust said all those affected have been contacted but not everyone has been reviewed by a consultant yet.

Affected patients have reported symptoms such as pain, swelling, audible 'popping' and difficulty when walking.

The product was withdrawn by the company.

On its website, DePuy Orthopaedics says: "Data recently received by the company shows that more people than expected who received the ASR Hip System experienced pain and other symptoms that led to a second hip replacement surgery, called a revision surgery.

"For this reason, DePuy Orthopaedics is voluntarily recalling its ASR™ XL Acetabular System and DePuy ASR™ Hip Resurfacing System.

"This recall means additional testing and treatment may be necessary to ensure the hip is functioning well. In some cases, patients may need additional surgery."