Novel One-Piece Big-Toe Implant

A new one-piece implant system for the big toe is designed for use in patients with painful loss of motion due to osteoarthritis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint (MPJ), hallux rigidus/limitus, and end-stage fallux valgus with bunion deformity. The system has been cleared by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The metallic-surface replacement system closely mimics the natural human anatomy and allows re-attachment of the flexor tendon. It also offers metatarsal head remodeling, which creates a congruent articulating surface between the implant and the metatarsal head by removing excess loose cartilage and bone. Compared to total toe fusion and total joint replacement, the system provides patients with greater motion and is less invasive and less costly than other surgical procedures, states the developer, Kinetikos Medical, Inc. (KMI, San Diego, CA, USA). The system is called the K2 Hemi Toe Implant.

"Most people don't spend time thinking about life without a big toe, but we aren't able to stand, to balance, or walk, let alone climb stairs without it,” said James F. Ham, president of KMI. "We are happy to enhance the quality of life for patients who have lost use of the MPJ, and who previously had few options to improve greater motion, flexibility, and durability.”




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