Smart Toe Implant | Medical Specialties - We Treat Feet Podiatry (2024)

Advantages of the Smart Toe implant are that the implant is one piece, no connection or failure point exists. There is no post operative implant exposure. Unaffected joints are not violated during the implantation of this implant. There is an active compressive force that is distributed through the implant that resists rotation. The procedure is simple with no need for implant removal, or changes in normal post operative care. The implant is composed of Nitinol, (an acronym for NIckel TItanium Naval Ordnance Laboratory) is a family of intermetallic materials, which contain a nearly equal mixture of nickel (55 wt. %) and titanium. Other elements can be added to adjust or “tune” the material properties. Nitinol exhibits unique behavior. The two terms used to describe this behavior are “Shape Memory” and “Superelasticity”.

Usage of the newer technologies for hammertoe arthrodesis will aid the foot surgeons in improved clinical outcomes. The Smart Toe implant utilizes new materials in a biomechanically ideal way to apply compression across the fusion site while avoiding the complications and technically involved nature of other products. Since no connection is needed, it avoids disconnection or implant failure. Since there is no aspect that is absorbed, early failure of the device is unlikely, and there is no need to remove the device as it does not cross unaffected joints. Applying compression across the arthrodesis site will reduce nonunion risks and the locking nature of the material insures equal and symmetrical compression.

Smart Toe Implant | Medical Specialties - We Treat Feet Podiatry (2024)

FAQs

Smart Toe Implant | Medical Specialties - We Treat Feet Podiatry? ›

The Smart Toe implant utilizes new materials in a biomechanically ideal way to apply compression across the fusion site while avoiding the complications and technically involved nature of other products. Since no connection is needed, it avoids disconnection or implant failure.

Do podiatrists treat toe problems? ›

Podiatrists can care for any condition that affects your feet, ankles and lower legs. They can treat common short-term issues like ingrown toenails, or work with you long-term while you manage a chronic condition like diabetes.

Can a podiatrist do hammer toe surgery? ›

Less invasive surgical procedures used include cutting the bone and using minimally invasive incisions. Addressing the soft tissue rather than cutting the bone is also an option done by podiatrists. Tenotomy is cutting the tendon, and releasing the tendons is still another surgery method that is still being researched.

What is the difference between a podiatrist and a podologist? ›

A podologist may have advanced knowledge of these research-based subjects but is not qualified to treat foot conditions or perform surgeries. A podiatrist, by contrast, is trained and qualified to treat a range of foot conditions, perform surgeries, prescribe medications, and design rehabilitation plans.

What kind of doctor should I see for toe pain? ›

As a general rule, if foot pain is your only issue, a podiatrist is a great choice. If you have pain all throughout your body, such as the neck and back, you should see an orthopedic doctor. If you can find a doctor that is trained in both orthopedics and podiatry, that is much better in the long run.

How does a podiatrist get rid of toe fungus? ›

Your podiatrist may also prescribe a topical treatment, which can be an effective treatment modality for fungal nails. In some cases, surgical treatment may be required. Temporary removal of the infected nail can be performed to permit direct application of a topical antifungal.

What is the downside of hammer toe surgery? ›

Risks and Complications

All surgeries come with possible complications, including the risks associated with anesthesia, infection, damage to nerves and blood vessels, and bleeding or blood clots. Complications specific to hammertoe surgery include the chance that the hammertoe may come back after your surgery.

What is the new procedure for hammer toes? ›

The TenoTac® System restores the anatomy of the toe. The device rebalances the tendons at the bottom of the toe that have become stiff and contracted due to the overpowering soft tissues along the top of the toe.

Does insurance cover hammer toe surgery? ›

Hammertoe surgery is usually covered by insurance if the condition is deemed a medical necessity. If correction of a hammertoe is done for only cosmetic reasons, insurance isn't likely to pay for it. Out of pocket surgery for hammertoe costs around $4,200 on average.

What is the downside of toe fusion? ›

What are the limitations of a big toe fusion? A big toe fusion makes your big toe stiff. It will limit the heel height you can wear on your shoes, usually a maximum of a one-inch heel. A big toe fusion may alter the way you walk, but most people do not have a limp after it has fully healed.

What is the recovery time for a toe implant? ›

Your surgeon may recommend physical therapy for toe joint replacement recovery. It can take as long as eight weeks to put full weight on your toe.

What is a great toe implant? ›

Great toe replacement with synthetic cartilage is a surgical procedure for the treatment of great toe arthritis in which damaged sections of the great toe joint are removed and replaced with an artificial component (synthetic cartilage implant).

What is higher than a podiatrist? ›

The truth is that foot and ankle orthopedic surgeons have the most comprehensive training available for nonsurgical treatment options and have the highest level of qualifications to diagnose the root cause of any foot or ankle problem.

Why is podiatry not a medical specialty? ›

However, podiatrists are not medical doctors. They will instead receive four years of education at a podiatric medical school before performing another three or four years of residency training. The sphere of the treatment they provide is limited only to the ankle and foot areas.

Is it better to see a podiatrist or chiropodist? ›

What's the difference between a chiropodist and podiatrist? The answer is that there is no difference, the 2 words are used interchangeably to describe the same thing… Essentially both a chiropodist and podiatrist are a foot doctor which both look at foot problems and care for foot health.

Should I see a doctor or podiatrist for a broken toe? ›

If you have an open fracture, with the broken bone poking through your skin, please seek medical attention immediately to prevent permanent damage and infections. For more information, please consult with a podiatrist. A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed.

What can a podiatrist do for toe walking? ›

However, if your pediatric podiatrist determines a physical issue is causing the toe walking, treatment may include:
  • Physical therapy exercises to strengthen and stretch muscles in the legs and feet.
  • Leg braces or a splint to correct gait.
  • Custom orthotics.

What is the most common problem treated by a podiatrist? ›

Common problems that podiatrists treat include bunions, heel pain, ingrown toenails, and athlete's foot. Treatment methods used by podiatrists can vary depending on the specific condition but often include things like orthotic devices, braces, or surgery.

What doctor looks at your toes? ›

Podiatrists are medical specialists who help with problems that affect your feet or lower legs. They can treat injuries as well as complications from ongoing health issues like diabetes. You might hear them called a podiatric physician or doctor of podiatric medicine.

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