The comments came after NHS England shared guidance following global supply issues.

Rory Deighton, acute and community care director speaking on behalf of NHS Providers and the NHS Confederation, said: ‘This disruption is very frustrating and disappointing for patients and for staff who have been working so hard to tackle long waits.

‘Health leaders will do all they can to minimise the impact and to direct current supplies to where they're needed most.

‘They will also work to ensure that patients affected have the information and support they need in the lead up to their treatment.

‘People should come forward for treatment as planned unless they are told otherwise by their trust.'

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.'