Update on supply of Heraeus Medical bone cement

Following the validation of processes involved in the production of Palacos™ bone cement late last month (see here), Heraeus Medical has advised NHS Supply Chain that it now does not envisage being in a position to resume supply until June. 

NHS Supply Chain has from the outset, as a precaution, planned to ensure stocks of alternative supplies of bone cement until the Autumn.

As previously advised, NHS Supply Chain has secured additional units of High fatigue G™ and Refobacin™. The production and availability of Simplex™ is also greater than expected. Whilst an increased supply of Vancogenx™ is also expected from the middle of April, NHS Supply Chain is waiting on confirmation from Summit Medical about increased volumes and delivery dates into the UK. 

NHS Supply Chain will revise the ICN with regular updates and advice on necessary action to be taken by NHS bodies,  and re-evaluate this when Heraeus Medical confirms that production has restarted at scale.

Whilst demand management measures are in place to ensure fair allocation nationally and continuity of patient care across the NHS, stakeholders are asked to ensure that the quantities of alternative cements ordered are for immediate requirements and in line with national guidance.

Although this arrangement is being coordinated through NHS England, the alternative cement supply will also be available to the devolved nations.

Again, we are grateful for your continued cooperation and professionalism, and further updates will follow as additional operational detail becomes available.

Yours faithfully

Fergal Monsell, President BOA 

On Behalf of: 
Tim Board, President BHS
Alasdair Santini, President BASK
Xavier Griffin, President OTS
Hiro Tanaka, President BOFAS
Mark Falworth, President BESS
Amir Qureshi, President BLRS