Abstract: A method and a distracter for replacing a removed, intervertebral disc with a prosthesis. An inter-body distracter is inserted within the intervertebral space between adjacent vertebrae, the vertebrae are distracted and are supported by the distracter. A fluid, curable polymer is injected into the intervertebral space and around the distracter and then the polymer is cured to a semi-rigid, pliable, elastically deformable state. The distracter is then disabled from supporting compressive forces applied by the vertebrae and remains in place. The preferred distracter is a scissors jack having intermediate bearings joined by links to support feet. One of the bearings has a threaded lateral bore and the second bearing has a lateral bore. A rod extends through the bores and has a threaded portion extending from a first end of the rod and threadedly engaging the threaded bearing.