Abstract: Various embodiments of the present invention relate to an apparatus for vertebral body replacement and methods associated therewith. In one embodiment, a vertebral body replacement apparatus may be used to correct and stabilize the spine (e.g., the thoracolumbar spine (T1-L5)). In another embodiment, a vertebral body (e.g., a diseased and/or damaged vertebral body) that has been resected or excised (e.g., for the treatment of a tumor or trauma) may be replaced (with the height of the resected or excised vertebral body being substantially replaced and restored by the apparatus of the present invention).

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclosed for securing grafts and fusing vertebrae within the spine following discectomy or vertebrectomy surgery. In one embodiment, a device for use after a discectomy comprises a plate having a curvature conforming to the natural anterior or lateral curvature of the cervical spine. The plate preferably has an inspection opening with a generally rectangular shape. The plate also has horizontally extending prongs disposed on opposite sides of the opening. A graft is inserted between the prongs. The upper end of the plate is secured to the vertebra above the removed disc and the lower end of the plate is secured to the vertebra below the removed disc. When the plate is secured to the spine, the prongs and graft extend into the space previously occupied by the removed disc. The graft is secured within the disc space by the prongs.