Lady Gaga has axed all of her upcoming tour dates in order to have surgery on her hip.

The singer previously announced that she would be postponing three upcoming shows in North America due to inflammation of the joints.

Gaga's team have now confirmed that the issue is more serious than first thought and surgery is needed - meaning that all of her remaining North America tour dates have been shelved.

A statement reads: "Live Nation Global Touring has confirmed that the remainder of the Lady GaGa 'Born This Way Ball' performances have been cancelled. After additional tests this morning to review the severity of the issue, it has been determined that Lady GaGa has a labral tear of the right hip.  She will need surgery to repair the problem, followed by strict down time to recover. This unfortunately, will force her to cancel the tour, so she can heal."

It adds: "Refunds for the cancelled performances will be available at point of purchase starting Feb 14, 2013."

Gaga's North American tour was due to continue through until a gig in Tulsa on March 20.