NHS joint replacement operations could be cancelled due to shortage of bone cement

18 February 2026

Arthritis UK

NHS joint replacement operations could be cancelled due to shortage of vital bone cement

NHS England has confirmed that there is a global supply shortage of a type of cement commonly used in knee and hip replacements. This issue is likely to lead to cancellations and delays for many people with arthritis who are expecting orthopaedic surgery, increasing the already unacceptably long waiting list.

NHS Supply Chain announced their supplier has temporarily halted production of their bone cement products which will impact product availability for at least two months:

'We have been informed by our supplier, Heraeus Medical, of a packaging fault affecting their bone cement products.

'This issue has temporarily halted production at their main site and will impact product availability for at least two months.

'We are engaging with alternative suppliers in this market and are identifying their ability to provide alternative products that are compliant routes to market in this period of disruption.' 

Some of the bone cement products affected by the packaging issue are fixation cements used in orthopaedic surgery to fix artificial joints securely to bone, most commonly in hip and knee replacements. 

An NHS spokesperson said:

“Following a global supply issue, the NHS is issuing immediate guidance to hospitals to ensure trauma and urgent care can safely continue, enable the use of alternative suppliers where possible, and to support prioritisation of orthopaedic waiting lists based on patients’ needs over the coming weeks.

“Any stock already in hospitals is unaffected, and the NHS is working closely with government and leading professional bodies to ensure safe and effective care can be provided while supply is resolved and to reduce delays for patients requiring less urgent care as far as possible.”

Deborah Alsina MBE, Chief Executive of Arthritis UK, said: 

“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. 

“We trust the Department of Health and Social Care will work hard to address the supply issues given the impact on those waiting in pain whose lives are left on hold. Aside from the personal toll on people with arthritis, the stakes are high for Government who have an uphill challenge to bring down waiting lists to meet ambitious targets.

“As this news breaks, we urge hospitals to communicate quickly with those affected to avoid additional worry and uncertainty. We are also offering support to anyone concerned about the impact of these delays through our free helpline and online community, where they can access information and advice while they wait for the surgery they so desperately need.”

About Arthritis UK

Arthritis UK is the leading arthritis charity, changing lives through research, campaigning and support. 

Over 10 million adults, young people and children in the UK live with arthritis. That’s one in six of us living with the pain, fatigue, disability, mental and financial strain it can cause. Many more live with arthritis but remain undiagnosed, untreated and unsupported. 

We know the impact of arthritis can be huge, affecting the ability to work, care for family, move free from pain and live independently. Yet for a condition affecting so many, it’s poorly understood and far too little is done. That’s why we invest in life-changing research into better treatments, support people through the daily challenges of life with arthritis, and campaign on the issues that matter most to people living with it. 

At Arthritis UK, we won’t rest until everyone with arthritis has access to treatments and support they need to live the life they choose, with real hope for a cure in the future. Find out more at: www.arthritis-uk.org 

Arthritis UK. For a future free from arthritis.