When the Cartiva Big Toe Joint Implant Fails (University Foot & Ankle Institute)
The Cartiva implant was considered to be a revolution in great toe arthritis therapy. It came out with a splash and the original studies to get the implant through FDA approval showed incredible results.
Our group, University Foot and Ankle Institute, and me in particular, were involved with helping launch the product and educating surgeons on how to use the implant. Initially, we were very excited to be involved but quickly realized there was something wrong.
WHAT IS CARTIVA?
The Cartiva implant is a mainly water based implant. It is placed in the great toe joint with a hole that is made into the metatarsal head. The implant is pressed fit into the hole and acts similar to regular cartilage, allowing motion of the joint.
The procedure is extremely easy to perform and reproducible in the operating room. It is also easy to teach and patients have a fairly rapid recovery after the surgery.
The original studies performed to get FDA clearance were extensive, with over 10 surgeons involved in the study. The results were amazing in the study. Almost all of the patients had pain relief...
