What is the Cartiva Implant?
Image: www.cartiva.net
“The Cartiva Implant is used to replace damaged cartilage in an injured big toe.”
Occasionally we'll be highlighting new technology that Dr. Elton believes might be helpful to his patients. Today, we're going to focus on The Cartiva Synthetic Cartilage Implant.
What is the cartiva synthetic implant?
The Cartiva Implant is a synthetic implant which combines a soft, plastic-like substance with saline to create a durable implant. This implant is used to replace damaged cartilage in an injured big toe.
What is Cartiva Used For?
Cartiva is for people who want to retain the natural movement of their foot while still eliminating the pain that is a result of a osteoarthritis of the big toe.
What is Osteoarthritis (OA) of the Big Toe?
Simply put, when the cartilage tissue of the big toe joint wears down causing the bones of the toe to rub together, the result can be painful swelling and persistent arthritis, which makes it difficult to walk.
In particular, the big toe of the human foot is meant to take much of the brunt of walking in terms of propulsive force, so we can see how pain in the big toe could be a monumental problem in terms of restricting mobility and restricting a person from engaging in an active and healthy lifestyle.
An Alternative to Fusion
Image: www.cartiva.net
In a fusion procedure, the joint is locked into place. Recovery from fusion often takes about 6 weeks until the toe is once again able to bear a significant load.
However, with Cartiva your foot will be in weight-bearing condition immediately, meaning you can walk out on it.
Using Cartiva allows us to preserve range of motion and mobility when it comes to walking, which is one of the primary benefits of the procedure.
What Procedure is Involved?
Cartiva surgery usually takes from 25 to 35 minutes. Here's how we do it:
images: www.cartiva.net
- We bring you into the operating room. Typically we use a general anesthesia, often combined with a regional ankle anesthetic.
- We make a 2-inch incision along the top of the toe joint.
- Using special tools, we remove the bone in order to create a hole for the implant.
- We place the Cartiva implant into the hole, where it stays in place. We don't have to use cement or glue.
- We close the incision and stitch it up.
That's it!
Who Will Benefit From This Treament?
For anyone who is living an active lifestyle and wants an alternative to fusion of the big toe, Cartiva is a great option because it does not inhibit the range of motion of the foot.
Does Cartiva Last for a Long Time?
Yes, the Cartiva implant should last for your entire life. In some cases there may be a need to replace the implant. You can find out more at the Cartiva website: www.cartiva.net
What if I'm interested in having the cartiva implant?
It's important to remember that any medical procedure is highly dependent upon individual circumstances. If you think Cartiva is right for you, contact Dr. Elton today.