Queen’s fears as Philip risks hip surgery at age of 96

age. However, Philip and his doctors were thought to have decided that the benefits of the surgery would outweigh the risks.

Last night he went into the private King Edward VII Hospital in Marylebone, Central London.

Buckingham Palace said: “Further updates will be issued when appropriate.”

The prince’s hip has been troubling him for about a month.

He cancelled his appearance at the Royal Maundy service at Windsor Castle last week and was not with the Queen at the Easter Sunday church service.

RISK

Scarlett McNally of the Royal College of Surgeons said: “All operations may have complications and some are at greater risk.

“Fitness is more important than age. Surgeons will take account of these risks in helping patients decide whether they wish to proceed with surgery.”

She added: “Performing it on higher-risk patients still provides great benefit for the majority.”

Joe Little of Majesty magazine said the Queen Mother was 97 when she had a second hip replaced.

Philip has had a series of health issues in his 90s and retired from public duties in August, saying: “I can’t stand up much longer.”

The Queen, 91, is in residence at Windsor for the month around Easter.