If you received a Cartiva Synthetic Cartilage Implant (SCI) for hallux rigidus and are still experiencing pain, swelling, or other troubling symptoms, you are not alone. Many individuals continue to suffer complications prior to having undergone a revision surgery to remove the implant. Understanding the ongoing nature of these issues is crucial, both for your health and your legal rights.

Your Health Comes First: Don't Delay Seeking Medical Attention

If you are experiencing severe pain, significant swelling, redness, warmth, or any signs of infection around your big toe joint, it is imperative that you contact your orthopedic surgeon or another healthcare provider immediately. These symptoms could indicate serious complications requiring prompt medical evaluation. Your doctor can assess your condition, potentially order imaging studies (such as X-rays or an MRI), and determine the best course of medical action.

The Reality of an Un-Revised Cartiva Implant: Ongoing Damage

While we never encourage unnecessary surgical procedures, it is important to understand the medical reality: as long as the defective Cartiva implant remains in your body, the osteolysis (bone degradation) and other deleterious processes are likely ongoing. The implant, designed to be synthetic cartilage, has a documented history of shrinking, migrating, or otherwise failing to perform as intended. This can lead to:

• Progressive Bone Loss: The implant's failure can cause continuous erosion of the surrounding bone tissue, weakening the joint.
• Worsening Pain and Stiffness: The initial pain you sought to alleviate may persist or intensify as the implant continues to cause irritation and instability.
• Increased Risk of Further Complications: Continued presence of a failing implant can lead to further soft tissue damage, nerve irritation, and potentially more complex problems down the line.

The only way to definitively stop the ongoing damage caused by a failing Cartiva implant is to remove it. If you are experiencing symptoms, even if they seem mild, it is critical to follow up with your surgeon and get a scan right away. Early detection of worsening conditions can be vital for your long-term joint health and to understand the full extent of the harm caused by the defective device.

Your Legal Rights: We Understand the Full Impact of Your Injury

At Wilentz, Goldman & Spitzer, P.A., we are keenly aware of the medical realities faced by Cartiva implant recipients. Our legal team, led by attorney Josh Kincannon with over 25 years of experience litigating against medical device manufacturers like Stryker, understands that the harm caused by a defective implant is not limited to those who have already undergone revision surgery. We recognize that the ongoing pain, the fear of future surgery, and the continuous damage within your body are all part of the injury caused by this faulty product.

Even if you have not yet had a revision surgery, you may still have a valid claim against the manufacturer for the suffering and damage caused by the defective Cartiva SCI. We are here to help you understand your legal options and pursue the compensation you deserve.

If you have a Cartiva toe implant and are experiencing symptoms, regardless of whether you've had a revision surgery, we encourage you to prioritize your health by consulting with your doctor. Simultaneously, contact Wilentz, Goldman & Spitzer, P.A. for a free, confidential legal consultation to discuss your situation. We are ready to listen, advise, and fight for your rights against the manufacturer of this defective device.

Wilentz, Goldman & Spitzer, P.A. is a New Jersey based law firm dedicated to YOUR recovery.