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Val CornwallElderly British woman cured arthritis in her big toe with implant
Date of Birth: 01.01.1947
Country:  Great Britain |
Content:
- Val Cornwall: From Arthritic Pain to Implant Success
- Introducing the Cartiva Implant
- Val's Decision and Surgery
- The Cartiva Implant
- Clinical Trials and Outcomes
- Downsides of the Procedure
- Unpredictability and Cost
- Val's Experience
Val Cornwall: From Arthritic Pain to Implant Success
Val's Journey with Hallux RigidusIn 2005, 67-year-old Val Cornwall began experiencing persistent pain in her big toe. After years of being a stay-at-home carer for her husband, Ron, the pain intensified to the point where she could barely walk. Diagnosed with osteoarthritis, Val was initially prescribed steroid injections, but the relief was short-lived.
Introducing the Cartiva Implant
In December 2010, Val was referred to Dr. Andy Goldberg at the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital. He presented her with an alternative to traditional surgery: the Cartiva implant. This implant, made of a plastic material similar to joint fillers, mimics the function of cartilage, reducing friction and providing cushioning.
Val's Decision and Surgery
Val opted to undergo the implant surgery in February 2011. The procedure involved a 40-minute operation under general anesthesia. The following day, Val was released from the hospital after taking painkillers. Gradually, she resumed her daily activities and experienced significant pain relief.
The Cartiva Implant
Design and FunctionalityThe Cartiva implant is a tubular device measuring approximately 9-10 mm in diameter and 1.5 cm in height. Its synthetic composition allows it to act like cartilage, smoothing the toe-bone connection for better movement.
Clinical Trials and Outcomes
The Cartiva implant has been tested in 233 patients in the UK and Canada with promising results. However, long-term data is still being collected.
Downsides of the Procedure
Potential ComplicationsLike any foot surgery, implant insertion can cause swelling that may last for 6-12 weeks. Other potential complications include deep vein thrombosis, bleeding, and infection.
Unpredictability and Cost
The Cartiva implant is associated with a degree of unpredictability due to the relatively short observation period in patients. The procedure also comes with a substantial cost of around £5,000.
Val's Experience
For Val Cornwall, the Cartiva implant has transformed her life. She is now able to visit her husband at a care home without fear of pain. "I feel I'm as active as I've ever been," Val said. "The fact that the dreadful pain is gone is wonderful."
