Bone cement supply issue

We are aware of the current shortage of medical bone cement affecting the NHS, following temporary production halts at one of the main global suppliers. We understand that this situation may be worrying for patients awaiting joint surgery.

At present, impact on services at RJAH is limited.

We are contacting directly any patients whose surgery needs to be rescheduled as a result of this shortage. If you do not hear from us, you should therefore assume your surgery is not impacted and will go ahead as planned. 

Our teams remain focused on delivering safe, high-quality care and minimising disruption for patients. We continue to monitor the situation closely and will keep patients and the public informed.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is happening?

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.

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 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 us.

The NHS remains open and you should also continue to use the NHS as normal for any other care you need.

How will I know if my appointment is affected?

We 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.

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 us using the information on your appointment letter. 


Last reviewed: 12 noon on 24 February 2026