Michigan Cartiva Toe Implants Lawsuit Lawyer

The defective medical device attorneys at Buckfire Law represent individuals nationwide who suffered complications after receiving the Cartiva Synthetic Cartilage Implant (SCI) for big toe arthritis.

In October 2024, the manufacturer, Stryker Corporation, issued a recall of all Cartiva toe implants after reports of a higher-than-expected rate of serious complications and device failures.

The implant, designed to relieve pain and preserve motion in the big toe joint, has instead been linked to worsening symptoms, additional surgeries, and long-term mobility issues in many patients.

This page explains the Cartiva implant recall, associated risks, and your legal options if you were injured.

• What Injuries Are Linked to Cartiva Toe Implant Failure?
• Which Cartiva Implants are Affected?
• What Should Current Cartiva Patients Do?
• Do I Qualify to File a Cartiva Implant Lawsuit?
• Contact a Cartiva Implant Lawsuit Attorney

Cartiva Toe Implant Recall and Lawsuit Overview

The Cartiva implant is a synthetic cartilage device made of a hydrogel material intended to mimic natural cartilage. It was marketed as an alternative to joint fusion surgery for patients suffering from big toe arthritis (hallux rigidus).

However, after years of use, real-world data revealed significantly higher complication and failure rates than expected. In response, a recall was initiated in October 2024 covering all implants distributed from 2016 through 2024.

Patients who experienced complications are now filing lawsuits alleging:

• Defective design
• Failure to warn about risks
• Misrepresentation of safety and effectiveness

Many claims are being consolidated into a federal multidistrict litigation (MDL), allowing injured patients to pursue compensation more efficiently.

What Injuries Are Linked to Cartiva Toe Implant Failure?

Patients with failed Cartiva implants have reported serious complications, often requiring additional surgery.

Common injuries include:

• Persistent or worsening pain
• Loss of range of motion or stiffness
• Implant subsidence (implant sinking into bone)
• Implant displacement or loosening
• Nerve damage or numbness
• Bone loss
• Implant fragmentation or breakage

In many cases, patients require revision surgery or complete removal of the implant, often followed by fusion of the toe joint.

Which Cartiva Implants Are Affected?

The recall applies to all sizes and models of the Cartiva Synthetic Cartilage Implant, including:

• 6mm, 8mm, 10mm, and 12mm devices
• All lots distributed between July 2016 and October 2024

Because this was a broad recall, many patients may not realize they received an affected implant.

You may have received a recalled device if:

• You had surgery for big toe arthritis
• Your surgeon implanted a Cartiva device
• You later experienced pain, stiffness, or worsening symptoms

What Are the Signs of Cartiva Implant Failure?

Cartiva implant failure may occur months or even years after surgery.

Symptoms to watch for include:

• Increasing pain after initial recovery
• Difficulty walking or standing
• Swelling or inflammation
• Reduced mobility in the big toe
• Instability in the joint

The FDA has advised healthcare providers to monitor patients for these symptoms due to the increased risk of complications.

What Should Current Cartiva Implant Patients Do?

If you received a Cartiva implant, you should:

• Contact your doctor if you experience pain or mobility issues
• Attend all follow-up appointments
• Request your surgical and implant records
• Seek a second opinion if symptoms worsen

Early diagnosis and treatment may help prevent more serious complications.

Do I Qualify to File a Cartiva Toe Implant Lawsuit?

You may qualify to file a lawsuit if:

• You received a Cartiva Synthetic Cartilage Implant
• You experienced complications such as pain, implant failure, or loss of mobility
• You required revision surgery, removal, or fusion

Even if you are unsure whether your implant failed, a legal review can help determine your eligibility.

How Much Time Do I Have to File a Cartiva Lawsuit?

Each state has a statute of limitations for product liability claims, typically between one and four years from the date of injury or discovery.

Because these cases depend on medical records and device identification, acting quickly can help preserve evidence and strengthen your claim.

Compensation Available in a Cartiva Implant Lawsuit

Patients who file a Cartiva lawsuit may be eligible to recover compensation for:

• Medical expenses, including revision surgeries
• Lost wages or reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Permanent disability or reduced mobility

Settlement amounts vary depending on the severity of injuries and long-term impact.

Contact a Cartiva Toe Implant Lawyer for a Free Case Evaluation

If you or a loved one experienced complications after receiving a Cartiva toe implant, Buckfire Law can help. We provide a free, no-obligation case review. If you qualify for a claim, we will file your lawsuit with no upfront legal fees or costs, and we will only receive a fee if you win a settlement! 

Legally reviewed by:

Lawrence J. Buckfire, J.D., Lead Trial Attorney at Buckfire Law
Lawrence J. Buckfire, J.D. has over 30 years of experience specializing in personal injury and wrongful death cases. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan and attended Wayne State University School of Law. Lawrence has been named a Super Lawyer, U.S. News Best Lawyer, and in The National Trial Lawyers-Top 100 Trial Lawyers.
Date of Review: May, 2026