Abstract: An embodiment of an intervertebral prosthetic device for implantation in a spine includes a rigid fixation member and a compressible member. The fixation member is configured to be placed in a cavity of a first vertebral body and against bone of the first vertebral body. The compressible member is configured to be placed in a cavity in an intervertebral disc and to be secured to the first fixation member. Another embodiment includes two compressible members and one fixation member. In this embodiment, the first and second compressible members are sized to substantially replace the nucleus pulposus of first and a second intervertebral discs, respectively, on either side of a vertebral body. The fixation member is sized to fit within a cavity in the vertebral body between the first and second compressible members.

Abstract: A cutting guide for use in spinal surgery includes a sidewall defining an internal cavity. A chisel guide, for use with the cutting guide, includes a first block member to be inserted into the internal cavity of the cutting guide to position the first block member adjacent the vertebral body. The chisel guide also includes a second block member connected to the first block member. An apparatus for creating a cavity in a vertebral body endplate and in an intervertebral disc may be a compressor or a distractor having at least one cutting implement thereon. A tensioner determines a proper elongation distance in a prosthesis implanted in a vertebral body.

Abstract: A cutting guide for use in spinal surgery includes a sidewall defining an internal cavity. A chisel guide, for use with the cutting guide, includes a first block member to be inserted into the internal cavity of the cutting guide to position the first block member adjacent the vertebral body. The chisel guide also includes a second block member connected to the first block member. An apparatus for creating a cavity in a vertebral body endplate and in an intervertebral disc may be a compressor or a distractor having at least one cutting implement thereon. A tensioner determines a proper elongation distance in a prosthesis implanted in a vertebral body.