The Cartiva® Synthetic Cartilage Implant (Cartiva SCI) is a man-made (synthetic) implant that is made of a soft plastic-like substance (polyvinyl alcohol) and salt water (saline). These materials are combined and molded into a solid, slippery and durable implant. The implant replaces the damaged cartilage surface of the big toe.
Your toes’ joints are uniquely designed for movement — especially the big toe, which provides most of the propulsive force needed for walking and running. Unlike fusion, which locks the joint in place, Cartiva allows your joint to move how it’s supposed to, so you retain your mobility and range of motion.