The HSE is to carry out a major review of all patients issued with metal to metal hip replacements.

It follows a similar review launched in the UK last year.

The move comes three years after DePuy ordered a worldwide recall of its ASR hip replacements due to concerns over early failure rates and possible leakages of chromium and cobalt which could affect organs.

More than 3,500 patients here received the implants between 2003 and 2010.

Fine Gael has welcomed the move but says it should have come sooner.