Abstract: A modular endoprosthesis having a plurality of shaft elements, wherein a first shaft element has a longitudinal axis, an outer wall, a circumferential indentation and a substantially conical bore. The bore has an open mouth and a closed base. The circumferential indentation is located on the outer wall close to the open mouth of the conical bore for the purpose of reducing mechanical stresses in the vicinity of the mouth of the bore when the endoprosthesis is subjected to a bending force. A second shaft element has a longitudinal axis, an outer wall and a substantially conical pin adapted to fit the bore in the first shaft element, for joining the two shaft elements together with a conical socket connection.

Abstract: An intervertebral implant for insertion between adjacent vertebrae. The implant includes a spacer having two end faces and defining a continuous hollow channel therein configured to receive natural bone substance; and flanges disposed on respective end faces of the spacer and extending in each respective end plane thereof for connection to the adjacent vertebrae. Each flange projects laterally beyond the spacer at at least one region of the spacer for reducing surface pressure exerted by the spacer on the vertebrae, at least one flange defining an aperture therein within a region of the hollow channel, the aperture being configured to receive a substrate therein for supporting the natural bone substance, the flanges further defining at least one perforation within a region thereof projecting laterally beyond the spacer through which the natural bone substance may grow along an outside region of the spacer.