February 20, 2026 - 185 views
Planned hip and knee replacement operations across North Wales have been temporarily paused due to a national shortage of specialist bone cement used in orthopaedic surgery.
Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board confirmed that all planned cemented procedures have been put on hold until further notice, primarily affecting some hip and knee replacements where cement is routinely used to secure implants in place.
Bone cement, medically known as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), is not a glue but a fast-setting material used by surgeons to anchor artificial joints to existing bone. In hip and knee replacements, it helps fix the metal or plastic components securely, particularly in older patients or those with weaker bone quality.
Cemented implants have been widely used for decades and are considered safe and effective, with strong long-term outcomes.
The current shortage is understood to be part of wider UK supply chain pressures affecting certain medical products. Industry reports have pointed to a combination of factors, including manufacturing slowdowns, raw material shortages, increased global demand for orthopaedic procedures as waiting lists recover post-pandemic, and regulatory changes affecting production and distribution. Some suppliers have also consolidated manufacturing sites in recent years, leaving the market more vulnerable to disruption if a single plant experiences difficulties.
The health board said urgent trauma cases, such as patients admitted with broken hips following a fall, will continue to be prioritised. Hip fracture surgery is time-critical and will go ahead using available supplies. Clinical teams are also reviewing patients with the most complex needs to ensure those requiring the most urgent care are treated first.
Patients awaiting planned surgery are being advised to continue attending outpatient appointments, pre-operative assessments and other treatments unless they are contacted directly. The health board stressed there is no need for patients to call unless asked to do so, and that individuals will be informed if their operation is affected.
For some patients, alternative approaches may be considered. Uncemented implants, which rely on bone growing into the surface of the prosthesis to secure it in place, can be clinically appropriate in certain cases, particularly for younger or more active patients with good bone quality. Surgeons across North Wales are reviewing cases individually to determine whether switching to an uncemented option is suitable and safe.
The pause comes at a time when orthopaedic services are still working to reduce waiting lists built up during the pandemic years. Joint replacement surgery is one of the most common planned procedures in Wales, often transforming quality of life for patients living with chronic pain and limited mobility caused by arthritis.
The health board acknowledged that delays may increase anxiety and discomfort for those waiting. Patients whose symptoms worsen or whose pain becomes harder to manage are being encouraged to contact their GP or usual clinical team. Additional advice and support is available through the board’s Self Care Team.
In a statement, the health board apologised for the uncertainty and said patient safety remains its absolute priority. It is working with national partners to secure further supplies and resolve the issue as quickly as possible.
Further updates are expected once more information becomes available on restoring normal surgical schedules across North Wales.
