Impact of NHS bone cement supply issue
The NHS is being affected by a global supply issue with bone cement used in joint surgery.
The main supplier of bone cement to the health service – Heraeus Medical – has had to temporarily stop production at its main site, affecting supply for up to two months.
The cement is used mostly in knee replacements, but also in some hip and shoulder replacements.
All NHS hospitals have been asked to prioritise trauma and urgent care for people who have suffered broken joints until supplies return to normal.
While we will make every effort to minimise the impact, this may result in some planned joint replacements being postponed so we have enough cement available for emergencies.
Any patients whose surgery is delayed will be rescheduled as soon as possible.
If you have a date for surgery scheduled, please assume it is going ahead unless you hear from the hospital directly.
Waiting lists will be reviewed based on patients’ needs over the coming weeks.
Why can’t we use an alternative?
For some procedures, alternative products are available from other suppliers but they will not be able to produce enough stock to cover everything Heraeus Medical would usually provide.
What is happening with the NHS bone cement supply issue?
Heraeus Medical, a manufacturer of bone cement used in medical procedures such as emergency surgery and routine hip and knee replacements experienced a fault at their factory.
As a result, there will be an ongoing global supply disruption for the next few weeks.
What does this mean for appointments?
Due to the global supply disruption, NHS England, The Department of Health and Social Care and the National Orthopaedic Society have asked NHS Trusts to prioritise providing procedures to patients with the most urgent clinical need to ensure there is enough supply.
This may mean that some patients with less clinically urgent needs have their care postponed, but medical teams will do their best to keep disruption to a minimum.
Should I still attend my appointment?
It is important that you continue to attend all your appointments as normal unless told otherwise by your provider.
The NHS remains open and you should also continue to use the NHS as normal for any other care you need.
I am worried about what this means for me. What should I do?
If you have any concerns or questions about what this means for you or your care, you should contact your care provider. They will be able to advise you.
How will I know if my appointment is affected?
Your care provider will contact you directly if your appointment is postponed. If you do not hear from them, please attend all your scheduled appointments as normal.
The NHS remains open and you should also continue to use the NHS as normal for any care you need.
Are private (non-NHS) medical providers also affected?
Yes. This is a global supply disruption and is impacting other organisations, not just the NHS.
