Patent ID: 7179293

Claim:
An implant system for promoting fusion bone growth in the space between adjacent vertebrae, comprising: at least first and second load bearing members adapted to be bilaterally placed between adjacent vertebrae, said load bearing members including opposite end pieces and an elongated central element extending between said end pieces, said opposite end pieces having two opposite surfaces configured to contact and support the adjacent vertebrae, said central element being sized smaller relative to said opposite end pieces to define a pocket between said central element and the adjacent vertebrae when the adjacent vertebrae are supported by said opposite end pieces, said pocket configured to contain an osteogenic material disposed about said central element and in intimate contact with the adjacent vertebrae when the vertebrae are supported by said opposite end pieces, and at least said first load bearing member including at least one opposite end piece having a truncated surface that defines a cutout region; and wherein at least one of said opposite end pieces of said second load bearing member is nested within said cutout region.