Cartiva, Inc. Announces First US Procedure for FDA Approved Cartiva Synthetic Cartilage Implant

ALPHARETTA, Ga.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Cartiva, Inc. announced today that the first commercial U.S. patient has
received the Cartiva Synthetic Cartilage Implant (SCI) following its
approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on July 1. The
Cartiva SCI device is intended for use in the treatment of patients with
painful arthritis at the base of the big toe, the most common arthritic
condition in the foot. The outpatient procedure was performed by Dr.
Judith F. Baumhauer at University of Rochester Medical Center’s Sawgrass
Surgery Center.
The first synthetic cartilage device approved by the FDA, Cartiva
provides another option for millions of patients who suffer from
arthritis of the big toe joint. The current standard of care involves
fusing the bones in the arthritic joint with screws and plates. While
fusion is an effective procedure for eliminating pain, it permanently
prevents movement of the joint. During the Cartiva procedure, the
damaged cartilage is removed and replaced with Cartiva SCI, a
biocompatible, biomedical polymer implant, providing a cartilage-like,
compressible, low-friction and durable bearing surface. Unlike a fusion
procedure, patients may begin weight bearing immediately as tolerated.
“Today, one in 40 Americans over the age of 50 experience arthritis of
the toe, and with the aging population, that number is likely to grow.
This condition can be particularly life-impacting – limiting a person’s
ability to conduct functional activities of daily living, producing pain
and discomfort and restricting shoe wear options,” said Dr. Baumhauer.
“The Cartiva implant was accomplished in a quick, simple surgical
procedure and we look forward to offering this innovative option to more
people in need.”
About Cartiva, Inc.
Based in Alpharetta, Ga., Cartiva, Inc. develops and markets innovative
solutions for patients with cartilage damage and osteoarthritis.
Cartiva’s venture investors include New Enterprise Associates, Windham
Venture Partners and Domain Associates. Additional information is
available on the company’s website at www.cartiva.net.