Patent attributes
A modular intervertebral prosthesis system includes first and second baseplates and an insert designed to mate to the baseplates. The baseplates include a mounting section and a intervertebral section extending away from the mounting section generally perpendicular thereto. The intervertebral section has at least one aperture passing therethrough. When installed, the insert is disposed between the intervertebral sections of the baseplates and faces the apertures. In this way, the insert is not insulated from the vertebral members, thereby allowing for osteoinduction, osteoconduction, and/or osteointegration, if desired. The insert may take the form of an articulating-type insert or a fusion-type insert, with the baseplates being operative with both types of inserts. After installation of the insert between the baseplates, the insert may be readily removed, at least initially.
