Cartiva Implant
A revolutionary surgical implant for toe arthritis
WHAT IS THE CARTIVA USED TO TREAT?
Cartiva is a new surgical implant that Dr. Farajian has adopted to successfully treat joint immobility and restore foot function and quality of life to our patients.
Osteoarthritis of the big toe joint refers to the pain and stiffness caused by damage to the cartilage. The stiffness leads to frequent jamming of the toe, with bone spurs eventually forming upon the big toe joint.
The Cartiva is intended to treat painful arthritis in the joint of the big toe (first metatarsophalangeal joint). This arthritis of the big toe, also known as osteoarthritis or “OA”, involves the wearing down of the cartilage tissue located in the big toe joint. The worn down cartilage can cause pain.
Unlike metal implants, Cartiva does not cut into or damage the bone or joint surface over time.
Recovery from the Cartiva implant procedure involves being kept in a boot for 2-3 weeks to allow the soft tissue and incision to heal. Physical therapy follows, or the patient is given home exercises and placed in comfortable sneakers. Patients can to normal activity and regular shoes after 5-6 weeks at which point swelling has decreased and range of motion is improved.
HOW DOES THE CARTIVA TREAT OA OF THE BIG TOE?
If Dr. Farajian thinks it may help you, the Cartiva SCI is made to replace the damaged cartilage surface of the big toe. The implant is placed into the bone in your big toe. The Cartiva provides a new smooth, slippery surface in the joint.
HOW DOES RECOVERY COMPARE TO FUSION?
With Cartiva, your foot will be weight bearing immediately following surgery. You should begin exercises that move your joint immediately. Your doctor may instruct you in the exercises to undertake in order to regain movement of your toe. Fusion normally takes 6 weeks before your foot will be weight bearing. For additional information about the Cartiva.
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