Women with breast implants could be left at greater risk from heart attacks because the devices may block detection of symptoms, a study suggests.

Researchers found that routine tests used to diagnose cardiac problems were far less reliable in women who had undergone breast enlargement surgery.

Electrocardiogram (ECG) tests are given to patients when they have suffered a suspected heart attack.

Electrodes are used to assess the rhythm and electrical activity of the heart, to detect abnormalities and determine which treatment is required.

But the new study presented at a heart conference in Vienna, found that readings appeared to be far less accurate, when women had breast implants - leaving them at risk of being falsely diagnosed with a heart attack, or symptoms being missed.

Every year around 25,000 women in the UK have breast implants.