Patent ID: 8105381
Filing Date: 2012-01-31
Classification: A61F

Abstract:
1. An intervertebral implant configured to be inserted along an insertion direction into an intervertebral space defined between a first vertebra and a second vertebra adjacent to the first vertebra, the intervertebral implant comprising: an upper part having an outer side adapted to engage the first vertebra and a lower part having an outer side adapted to engage the second vertebra, wherein each of the upper and lower parts defines a leading end with respect to the insertion direction, and an opposed trailing end, the upper and lower parts configured to be separate parts not integrally connected to each other and adapted to be in operative contact with each other for movement relative to each other, and at least one of the upper and lower parts comprising an elongated keel extending out from the outer side of the respective upper or lower part and extending longitudinally from the trailing end toward the leading end, the keel having a recess that 1) is open to the respective outer side at its trailing end and 2) extends from its trailing end into the part along a direction toward the leading end and, the recess being closed within the keel at a front portion of the keel, the recess having an opening that removably receives an implant handling instrument that inserts the implant into the intervertebral space.