NHS Hip and Knee Operations Threatened by Bone Cement Supply Shortage
Hospitals across the National Health Service have been directed to ensure that supplies of medical cement are prioritised for trauma and urgent care cases, following a significant global shortage. This development poses a serious threat to pre-planned surgeries, including hip and knee replacements, with campaigners describing the news as a crushing blow to patients awaiting vital procedures.
Global Supply Issue Halts Production
The shortage stems from a packaging fault reported by Heraeus Medical, the NHS's primary supplier of bone cement based in Germany. This issue has temporarily halted production at its main site and is expected to impact product availability for at least two months. As a result, NHS officials estimate a potential supply gap of six to eight weeks, although current stock in hospitals is unaffected for the next two weeks.
Bone cement is essential for anchoring artificial joints and filling spaces between new joints and patients' bones. It is used in various operations, including orthopaedic and dental surgeries. The NHS is now issuing immediate guidance to hospitals to:
- Ensure trauma and urgent care can safely continue.
- Enable the use of alternative suppliers where possible.
- Support prioritisation of orthopaedic waiting lists based on patients' needs.
Impact on Patients and Waiting Lists
Deborah Alsina, chief executive of Arthritis UK, expressed concern over the situation, stating, This is a crushing blow for those individuals who have finally made it to the front of the orthopaedic surgery queue after a long time waiting. She urged the Department of Health and Social Care to address the supply issues promptly, noting the personal toll on people with arthritis and the challenges for government targets to reduce waiting lists.
Caroline Abrahams, charity director at Age UK, highlighted that many older people with scheduled operations in the coming months may face unavoidable postponements. She emphasised the need for the NHS to reschedule surgeries speedily once supplies recover and provide support to keep patients as pain-free as possible.
NHS Response and Patient Guidance
An NHS England spokesperson confirmed that the health service is working closely with government and professional bodies to ensure safe and effective care while resolving the supply issue. Rory Deighton, speaking on behalf of NHS Providers and the NHS Confederation, assured that health leaders will minimise the impact and direct current supplies to where they are most needed. Patients are advised to come forward for treatment as planned unless informed otherwise by their trust.
This shortage comes at a critical time, with tens of thousands of patients in England receiving hip or knee replacements annually. Campaigners are calling for clear communication from hospitals to avoid additional worry and uncertainty among affected individuals.
