Patient information: Update on bone cement supply

This is an update for patients on the temporary national disruption to the supply of bone cement used in some orthopaedic procedures, including hip fracture surgery and routine hip and knee replacements.

What is happening?

Heraeus Medical, a manufacturer of bone cement used in emergency and planned orthopaedic surgery, has experienced a fault at its production facility. As a result, there has been a global disruption to the supply of this product for several weeks.

Because of this, NHS England, the Department of Health and Social Care, the British Orthopaedic Association (BOA) and other national orthopaedic leaders have asked hospitals to manage existing supplies and prioritise patients with the most urgent clinical need.

What does this mean for my treatment?

Hospitals are reviewing current cement stock levels to reserve approximately seven days’ supply to protect emergency trauma surgery (particularly hip fracture surgery). Any surplus stock will be used for planned (elective) procedures where appropriate

This may mean that some patients will have their surgery postponed. If this affects you, you will be contacted directly. If you do not hear from your hospital, please attend your appointments as planned.

Has an alternative supply been secured?

Yes. NHS England has confirmed that an alternative bone cement made from the same core material and functions in the same way and has been widely used in Europe since 2008 has been secured and will be available through NHS Supply Chain from late February. Other alternative supplies are also being sought.

The available evidence relating to this cement has been reviewed by relevant the Orthopaedic Specialist Societies which are satisfied that it is mechanically equivalent to products most commonly used in UK practice.

All joint replacements continue to be monitored through established national systems, including the National Joint Registry.

National clinical oversight and collaboration

The BOA should like to reassure patients that this situation has been managed with close national oversight including:

• The British Orthopaedic Association (BOA)
• The British Hip Society (BHS)
• The British Association for Surgery of the Knee (BASK)
• The British Orthopaedic Directors Society (BODS)
• The Orthopaedic Trauma Society (OTS)
• The British Shoulder and Elbow Society (BESS)
• The British Foot and Ankle Society (BOFAS)
• NHS England
• The Department of Health and Social Care
• NHS Supply Chain
• Heraeus Medical and other suppliers

These organisations have worked closely together to ensure patient safety remains the highest priority and to minimise disruption. NHS England, the Department of Health and Social Care, and the British Orthopaedic Association have issued a joint national statement containing additional detailed information here. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are expected to publish corresponding guidance shortly.

Will my surgeon have to use this cement?

No. No surgeon will be required or compelled to use this product.

Surgeons will only use it in clinical situations where they consider they have been appropriately trained, are familiar with the characteristics of the alternative and confident. Training and educational materials are being provided nationally to support safe adoption.

If, during this transition period, a surgeon considers they are unable to proceed with a cemented procedure, alternative local arrangements may be made to ensure safe care and maintain service continuity.

Can I choose to defer my surgery?

Yes. You always retain the right to defer surgery if you wish.

However, based on the available evidence, deferral is not considered necessary solely because of the change in cement supplier.

If you would like to discuss this further, please contact your care team.

Should I still attend my appointment?

Yes. Please continue to attend all appointments as normal unless you are contacted directly and advised otherwise.

If your appointment needs to be postponed, your care provider will inform you.

I am worried about what this means for me. What should I do?

If you have any concerns or questions about your treatment, please contact your care provider. They will be able to discuss your individual circumstances and provide reassurance.

We recognise that this situation may cause concern, and we appreciate your patience and understanding. Our priority remains providing safe, high-quality care to all patients, particularly those with urgent clinical needs. Further updates will be shared as more information becomes available.