Abstract: A spinal plate system that allows for increased spinal stability is provided. In an embodiment, a spinal plate system is provided that includes first and second slidable plates coupled together. Each of the first and second slidable plates includes first and second fasteners that are obliquely oriented relative to the corresponding slidable plate. The first and second fasteners are fixed to each other at their distal ends thereby forming a triangular frame consisting of the corresponding slidable plate and the first and second fasteners. In addition, a fastener guide is provided that facilitates the accurate placement of the first and second fasteners for each of the first and second slidable plates.

Abstract: A disc prosthesis for use on a pair of adjacent vertebrae comprises upper and lower plates adapted to be mounted respectively to adjacent upper and lower vertebrae, typically using screws that extend through holes defined in the upper and lower plates and into the upper and lower vertebrae; a joint mechanism linking the upper and lower plates; and a damping system. The joint mechanism and the damping system are adapted to allow for biased relative movements between the upper and lower vertebrae.