Understand Metatarsal Phalangeal Joint Replacement and Cartiva Implant Lawsuits

If you’re experiencing issues with a metatarsal phalangeal joint replacement, specifically a Cartiva toe implant, you are not alone. Many people are facing complications after receiving this implant, leading to Cartiva implant lawsuits. In this blog, we discuss what the metatarsal phalangeal joint is, why some doctors recommend replacements, and what we have seen gone wrong with these devices.

What is a Cartiva Toe Implant and the Metatarsal Phalangeal Joint?

The metatarsal phalangeal joint is located at the base of the big toe. Here, the metatarsal bone meets the first bone of the toe (phalange). This joint is crucial for walking, running, and maintaining balance. However, conditions like arthritis, particularly hallux rigidus (stiffness in the big toe), can damage this joint, causing pain and limiting movement.

To address this, some patients undergo a metatarsal phalangeal joint replacement. The company created the Cartiva toe implant for this purpose; it replaces the damaged cartilage in the joint. The goal is to reduce pain and restore mobility. Unlike traditional joint fusion, the Cartiva implant purports to provide greater flexibility and quicker recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions About Metatarsal Phalangeal Joint Replacement

We are not doctors, but this is what we have heard folks ask and how we understand it as lay persons.

What is a metatarsal phalangeal joint replacement?

A metatarsal phalangeal joint replacement involves surgically replacing the damaged joint at the base of the big toe. Doctors recommend this procedure for patients suffering from arthritis in the big toe who want to preserve joint mobility.

Why do people need metatarsal phalangeal joint replacements?

People typically need this surgery because arthritis or injury causes pain, stiffness, or deformity caused in the big toe joint. When the cartilage wears away, bone rubs on bone, making it difficult to walk without discomfort.

What can go wrong with a metatarsal phalangeal joint replacement?

Complications can include pain, infection, implant failure, and continued joint stiffness. In some cases, the implant may not integrate well with the surrounding tissue, Ultimately what we understand is that this all causes the need for revision surgery. Having a second surgery to remove the device is the reason we are asserting.

Why Are There Cartiva Implant Lawsuits?

Despite its intended benefits, reports suggest a higher rate of failure for the Cartiva toe implant than we expected to see. Lawsuits against the Cartiva implant primarily stem from issues with the device’s performance over time. Some patients report that the implant fails to provide long-lasting relief from pain. In some cases, the implant dislocates or becomes loose within the joint. Others experience a return of arthritis symptoms, requiring additional surgeries to remove or replace the implant.

A potential claim in these lawsuits is that the manufacturer failed to adequately warn patients and doctors about the implant’s higher risk of failure.  They also claim that the device may not have been thoroughly tested before it became widely used. Patients who trusted that the Cartiva implant would improve their quality of life now find themselves needing more surgeries and facing mounting medical costs. Some of these arguments are challenging because of a legal doctrine, preemption. 

How KBA Attorneys May Be Able to Help with Your Metatarsal Phalangeal Joint Replacement Lawsuit

If you’ve suffered due to a failed Cartiva toe implant, we can help you file a lawsuit against the manufacturer to seek compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, and pain and suffering.

Our team has first hand experience in medical device litigation. Our experience extends further than solely legal components. Our attorneys have experience in the medical and science side of these cases. We will fight to hold Cartiva accountable for the harm patients suffer from their product. 

We have expertise in arguing motions concerning the substantive law. We have retained experts and helped develop expert reports. This includes motion practice and trails for Cartiva cases.

Many firms refer Cartiva cases to us. Our success with Cartiva has also resulted in attorneys from other law firms asking us questions about this topic to help them with their own cases.

At KBA Attorneys, we understand the physical and emotional toll that complications from a metatarsal phalangeal joint replacement can have on your life. Most of our attorneys are either athletes or former athletes. We understand that having an active lifestyle is important for certain individuals. Not being able to remain active because of a faulty toe replacement, can have an affect on more than your physical toll. For people who are active everyday, this type of disruption can take an extreme emotional toll on them.

Conclusion

If you experience complications after a metatarsal phalangeal joint replacement with a Cartiva toe implant, you may be able  to seek compensation. The fight against Cartiva will be challenging. Don’t face this battle alone. KBA Attorneys has years of knowledge and experience with Cartiva toe implants. We are here to help you navigate the complexities of a Cartiva implant claim and fight for the justice you deserve. Contact us today for a consultation and to learn more about how we can help you take action.