RAMP-SHAPED INTERVERTEBRAL IMPLANT

摘要

A ramp-shaped intervertebral implant (10) is disclosed. The implant has a body having a first end (16), a second end (14), a top surface (22) and a bottom surface (24). At least one of the top and bottom surfaces is tapered that converges towards the second end of the body. An opening (26) extends through the body, has one end opening onto the top surface of the implant and the other end opening onto the bottom surface of the implant. The implant can be formed from the diaphysis or metaphysis of a long bone, wherein the intramedullary canal of the long bone defines the opening. Alternately, the implant can be made from any biocompatible material having the requisite strength requirement.