The NHS is facing a global shortage of bone cement, which is essential for traumatic and elective orthopedic operations such as knee and hip procedures. The shortage was caused by a packaging error at main supplier Heraeus Medical in Germany, which supplies around three-quarters of the cement for the NHS. Production has resumed, but supplies will be affected for at least two months. The NHS estimated a two-week supply and ordered hospitals to reserve seven days for emergency trauma surgery. Excess stock will only be used for elective surgeries, which has led to delays for many patients. The NHS secured two alternative suppliers and procured around 35,000 units of cement as a bailout. Hospitals were encouraged to review waiting lists and prioritize patients according to need.