SUPPORT STRUCTURE DEVICE AND METHOD

摘要

An artificial vertebral joint (100) is interposed between a superior vertebr a and an inferior vertebra. The artificial vertebral joint comprises a rostral joint component having a first surface adapted for engagement with an endpla te of the superior vertebra, a first anterior articulation surface (122), and a support tab (111) adapted for extending from the first surface and for engaging a portion of the endplate. The portion of the endplate extends from the first surface to a posterior edge of the endplate. The joint further comprises a caudal joint component having a second surface adapted for engagement with an endplate of the inferior vertebra and a spacer component (118) adapted for interposition between the rostral joint component and the caudal joint component.