Patent ID: 6179874
Filing Date: 2001-01-30
Classification: A61B,A61F

Abstract:
A spinal implant comprising:(a) a first element comprising a first articulation surface, a first outer surface, and a first connection means for engaging a first vertebra, wherein said first outer surface comprises a first radiused outer wall;(b) a second element comprising a second articulation surface, a second outer surface, and a second connection means for engaging a second vertebra, wherein said second outer surface comprises a second radiused outer wall, wherein at least one of said connection means comprises a fusion chamber located between said articulation surface and said outer surface, and said outer surface comprises at least one opening for facilitating bone ingrowth into said fusion chamber;(c) a tail wall and a leading wall; and(d) an articulation means, coupling said first articulation surface to said second articulation surface, for allowing relative movement between said first element and said second element, wherein said articulation means resist axial compression in the direction of a support axis, wherein said first articulation surface abuts said second articulation surface to form said articulation means, said articulation means comprising a channel along said second element and a rocker along said first element, and wherein at least a portion of said rocker is engaged within said channel.