What is Cartiva made of?
The implant is composed of a biocompatible, durable, slippery organic polymer that functions similarly to natural cartilage.
What is Cartiva used to treat?
Cartiva treats painful arthritis in the joint of the big toe. This arthritis involves the wearing down of the cartilage tissue in the big toe 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.
The Cartiva Implant education brochure