Cartiva Synthetic Cartilage Implant Lawsuits
If you or a loved one experienced complications after receiving a Cartiva Synthetic Cartilage Implant (SCI) for big toe arthritis, you may be entitled to compensation.
The Cartiva implant, approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2016, was designed to relieve the pain and symptoms of hallux rigidus (arthritis of the big toe). According to a Reuters report released that same year, nearly 50,000 big toe surgeries were expected to be performed in 2016 alone.
However, since its release and subsequent use in big toe surgeries nationwide, reports of device failure, pain, stiffness, and surgical complications have raised serious concerns about the Cartiva implant’s safety and effectiveness.
Ferrer Poirot Feller is investigating claims from patients who suffered injuries due to defective Cartiva implants. If you experienced severe pain, loss of mobility, or required revision surgery after receiving a Cartiva SCI, we are here to help you explore your legal options.
What Is the Cartiva Toe Implant?
The Cartiva Synthetic Cartilage Implant (SCI) is a polyvinyl alcohol-based implant intended to mimic the natural cartilage in the big toe joint. The implant was marketed as an alternative to joint fusion surgery, allowing patients to retain mobility while reducing arthritis pain.
However, despite its promising design, many patients have reported serious post-surgical complications, leading to concerns about the device’s long-term safety.
What Is Hallux Rigidis?
Hallux rigidus is a form of degenerative arthritis that affects the big toe joint (first metatarsophalangeal joint). It develops when the cartilage in the joint wears down over time, causing pain, stiffness, and loss of motion. The condition typically worsens over time and can severely limit mobility, making walking and other activities difficult.
Common symptoms of hallux rigidus include:
- Pain and stiffness in the big toe, especially when walking or standing
- Swelling and inflammation around the joint
- Difficulty bending or moving the toe
- Bone spurs that can lead to additional discomfort
This condition primarily affects around two million individuals in the U.S., with most being over the age of 50. However, it can also occur due to previous injuries, structural foot issues, or excessive stress on the joint.
Cartiva Implant Complications and Failures
Despite FDA approval, many surgeons have stopped using the Cartiva SCI due to its high failure rate. Common issues reported by patients and their surgeons include:
- Implant subsidence (the device sinking into the bone)
- Persistent or worsening post-operative pain
- Loss of toe mobility
- Stiffness and inflammation
- Requirement for revision surgery
Some patients have needed additional surgeries to remove or replace the implant, often leading to permanent joint damage or fusion procedures.
FDA Status and Ongoing Concerns
While the FDA has not yet issued a recall for the implant, an increasing number of patients and medical professionals have raised alarms about the device’s failure rate and post-surgical complications.
Many surgeons now recommend against using the Cartiva SCI, and affected patients are exploring legal action to recover damages for their medical expenses, pain, and suffering.
Do I Qualify for a Cartiva Toe Implant Lawsuit?
You may qualify for compensation if you:
- Received a Cartiva Synthetic Cartilage Implant for hallux rigidus
- Experienced severe pain, stiffness, or loss of mobility after implantation
- Required revision surgery to remove or replace the implant
- Suffered from implant subsidence or other complications
People who received the implant and developed complications may be eligible for compensation for:
- Medical expenses (including revision surgeries)
- Pain and suffering
- Lost wages
- Other related damages
Contact Ferrer Poirot Feller for a Free Case Review
At Ferrer Poirot Feller, we fight for the rights of injured patients. You may be entitled to significant compensation if you experienced complications due to a Cartiva Synthetic Cartilage Implant. Our experienced defective medical device lawyers are ready to review your case and help you pursue justice.
Call us today for a free case review to learn how we can help.