Patent ID: 8152852

Claim:
A variable height vertebral implant comprising: a first end ring and a second end ring positioned in spaced apart relationship, the first and second end rings being disposed to engage adjacent spaced apart vertebrae; a plurality of telescopically variable length rods extending between the first and second end rings, the plurality of rods being adjustable in length to provide the desired spacing between the first and second rings to engage the adjacent spaced apart vertebrae, at least one of the telescopically variable length rods including a ratchet mechanism for releasably securing the at least one telescopically variable length rod in a fixed position; an expandable mesh wall extending between the first and second rings, the mesh wall defining an opening between adjacent ones of said variable length rods for providing access to the interior of the vertebral implant; and a mesh insert that is releasably secured to each of said adjacent ones of said variable length rods or the first and second rings whereby the mesh insert covers the opening in the mesh wall between said adjacent ones of said variable length rods.