Cartiva Implant Surgery Perth

An arthroplasty is a procedure that involves reconstructing and augmenting an injured or problematic joint. This procedure is often performed in conjunction with a cheilectomy. The joint may be rebuilt in several ways, but each procedure involves the use of some form of implant to support the injured joint. In particular, Dr Pocklington (Podiatric Surgeon) can provide insertion of the CARTIVA® synthetic cartilage implant,  which replaces damaged cartilage within the joint.

Arthroplasty with a CARTIVA® implant is used in mild, moderate and severe hallux rigidus cases and provides an alternative to joint fusion. The implant provides pain relief and improved function without sacrificing movement at the important metatarsal-phalangeal joint.

The surgery will involve an incision in your foot and after careful inspection of the joint, drilling into the large bone at the base of your 1^st toe to position and make space for the implant. There is no internal fixation, for example screws or wires, required for an arthroplasty because the implant is seated within the joint itself.

The procedure reconstructs the 1^st metatarsal-phalangeal joint and restores range of motion to the toe. There are risks associated with all surgery and Dr Pocklington (Podiatric Surgeon) will discuss these with you in detail prior to your surgery. An arthroplasty procedure takes between 20 and 40 minutes to perform. Anaesthetic injections are used to numb your foot locally in all cases, but an anaesthetist will also provide either a general anaesthetic or IV sedation.

Usually an arthroplasty surgery with CARTIVA® implant is a day procedure allowing you to immediately weight bear on your foot in a stiff sole surgical shoe. Sometimes people stay overnight at a private hospital and return home the following day.

Pain relief after surgery usually involves a combination of painkillers and anti-inflammatories, but significant pain relief is often unnecessary. Paracetamol is usually all that is required within the first week.

Wound healing occurs within 2 to 4 weeks after the surgery and during this time restricted activities, including time off work is recommended. Dressings are removed and replaced at 1 week, giving you an opportunity to see your progress and discuss it with Dr Pocklington (Podiatric Surgeon). Sutures are usually removed at 2 weeks. The process of healing after surgery is important and requires ongoing attention from your surgeon. A podiatric range of motion exercise and stretching rehabilitation program begins immediately to ensure function is returned to the foot, toe and your life as soon as possible.

Please book online to speak with Dr Pocklington (Podiatric Surgeon) about the use of CARTIVA® implants.