Abstract: Methods and devices for implanting a prosthetic device, such as an artificial spinal implant, are provided. The installation tool can include a handle having a pair of opposed levers, an optional pusher block disposed between the levers, and a shaft at least partially disposed within the handle and able to be coupled to the pusher block and/or to a prosthetic device. As the shaft translates along a longitudinal axis of the installation tool, the pusher block and/or the prosthetic device separate the levers and distract adjacent vertebral bodies to position a prosthetic device therebetween. The tool is able to maintain its an overall length during use, and it can be configured in rotation and/or translation modes.