An independent review into the use of unapproved metal springs in paediatric spinal surgeries has found that "children were left unprotected from risk of harm".

The report by the Health Information and Quality Authority found there was inadequate oversight within Children's Health Ireland and that families could not give informed consent to procedures using these devices due to a lack of information.

Former director general of the HSE Tony O'Brien joins The Last Word to discuss the findings of the report.

Hear the full conversation by pressing the 'Play' button on this page.