New Technology in the Treatment of Hallux Rigidus with a Synthetic Cartilage Implant Hemiarthroplasty

Synthetic cartilage implant surgery is an excellent option for the patient with great toe arthritis and good alignment of the toe who wishes to retain first metatarsophalangeal motion and obtain 90% improved pain relief and function. Patients with osteoporosis, osteopenia, or bone defects from surgery or disease may not maintain the implant position due to poor bone quality, resulting in less than desired outcomes. Despite this being a straightforward surgery, patients need to be aware that the pain relief may not begin until 3+ months after surgery because this procedure does require bone resection and implant placement.