Abstract
Background The Cartiva implant (CI) is being increasingly used in the surgical therapy of hallux
rigidus. Despite a growing number of studies, numerous questions regarding patient
selection remain unanswered.
Patients and Methods As part of a retrospective case series with prospective follow-up (average follow-up
period: 12 months), a total of 44 patients (male/female = 16/28; mean age at
the time of surgery: 55.4 years) with 44 CI were analysed (VAS, EFAS-, AOFAS-score).
Using a correlation analysis and a machine learning algorithm, risk factors for therapy
failure were
investigated.
Results The overall survival rate of the CI was 93% at 12 months. The VAS, EFAS and AOFAS
scores showed a significant improvement in comparison to the preoperative condition.
The
mobility of the metatarsophalangeal joint showed no increase. Patients with a
medium osteoarthritis grade and a medium level of clinical restraint showed the greatest
improvement in relation
to their preoperative condition.
Conclusion The CI can be seen as an effective therapy for hallux rigidus. Nonetheless, realistic
patient expectations must be communicated.
Key words
Osteoarthritis - EFAS - Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) Hydrogel - joint preserving