Health fears over metal hip implants

Almost 50,000 patients with “metal on metal” hip replacements will need annual checks over concerns they can cause serious health problems.

New guidance has been issued over the implants, which have been linked to muscle and bone damage and neurological issues.

Tiny metal ions made up of cobalt and chromium are thought to break off from the implants and leak into the blood.

The Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) issued a new alert to the NHS yesterday, saying there was a “small risk” the implants could cause complications in patients.

Some 49,000 people in the UK will now need annual blood tests to check their blood ion levels.