Important update about orthopaedic surgery and bone cement supplies
Please continue to come in for your operation unless we contact you directly.We are aware of a national shortage of a type of bone cement used in some orthopaedic operations, such as certain hip and knee replacements. This is due to a global manufacturing issue affecting one supplier that provides most of the bone cement used across the NHS.
If your surgery is scheduled, please continue to attend as normal unless we contact you to say otherwise.
Why this may affect some operations
This has created a significant national supply disruption, with implications for elective orthopaedic activity across the NHS. This will have impacts and potential delays on routine orthopaedic procedures such as hip or knee replacements.
We are prioritising urgent and trauma cases in line with national NHS guidance.
In some cases, it may be necessary to postpone planned surgery at short notice to ensure urgent and emergency patients can be treated safely.
However, not all hip or knee replacements require bone cement. Because of this our clinical teams are carefully reviewing each patient’s planned procedure.
Where it is safe and appropriate, surgery may proceed using alternative techniques that do not require bone cement.
What will happen if your operation needs to be postponed
If your operation does need to be delayed, we will contact you directly as soon as possible.
We will explain the reason for the change and discuss next steps, including rescheduling.
Your clinical team will ensure any decision is made based on your safety and clinical needs.
We know that postponements can be disappointing and inconvenient. We are very sorry for the uncertainty this situation may cause.
What you should do
Please attend your appointment or surgery as planned unless we contact you.
If you have questions or concerns, please contact your clinical team using the details in your appointment letter.
We will continue to keep patients informed as the situation develops.
