On February 5, 2026, the United States Judicial Panel for Multidistrict Litigation (JPML) created MDL 3172 – In Re: Cartiva Synthetic Cartilage Implant Products Liability Litigation. The Panel found that “actions in this litigation involve common questions of fact and that centralization in the Eastern District of Arkansas will serve the convenience of the parties and witnesses and conserve judicial resources. The JPML transferred the matter to the Eastern District of Arkansas and, with the consent of the Court, assigned the cases to the Honorable Kristine G. Baker for coordinated or consolidated pretrial proceedings.”
There are 14 cases filed to date, all involving the Cartiva Synthetic Cartilage Implant (Cartiva SCI) which is a medical device specifically designed to treat osteoarthritis in the first metatarsophalangeal (MTP), or big toe joint. The hydrogel implant was designed to relieve osteoarthritis pain and stiffness and enhance joint movement. According to the JPML, “Plaintiffs allege that their Cartiva SCI was defective, that they experienced persistent pain and limited range of motion following implantation, and that they required additional surgery to remove their failed implant and fuse the arthritic joint. All plaintiffs assert claims for strict products liability, negligence, and breach of express and implied warranties.”
The implant was developed by Cartiva Inc. and approved by the FDA in 2016. It was recalled on October 31, 2024 in the wake of a series of negative patient outcomes that included:
- High Rates of Revision and Removal
- Implant Subsidence and Displacement
- Chronic Pain and Nerve Damage
- Fragmentation
The MDL has been formed after a lengthy period during which negotiations aimed at a global settlement were underway and a trial was scheduled for October, 2025. The trial was postponed to August, 2026 in an effort to encourage settlement talks.
