Abstract: The invention relates to a modular support cage (10) for supporting vortex elements, comprising a distal support section (20) that has at least two end plates (22a, 22b), which lie opposite each other and which can be moved relative to each other. Each end plate (22a, 22b) has a contact surface (24a, 24b), which is oriented outwards and which is designed to contact the element to be supported, and a bearing region (24a, 24b) that is oriented towards the opposite end plate (22a, 22b) and has a proximal support section (40), said proximal support section having at least two contact surfaces (42a, 42b) oriented outwards and a bearing element (44) that can be joined between the bearing regions (24a, 24b) of the end plates (22a, 22b) and supports same such that the end plates (22a, 22b) are held in a specified position.