Patent attributes
A prosthetic device for placement in an intervertebral space defined between an upper vertebra and a lower vertebra to provide articulating motion to the upper and lower vertebrae may includes an upper articular portion configured to be at least partially disposed in the intervertebral space and a lower articular portion configured to be at least partially disposed in the intervertebral space. The lower articular portion may be configured to cooperate with the upper articular portion to provide articulating motion to the upper and lower vertebrae. An attachment element may extend in the general direction of the spinal column. The attachment element may be configured to be fastened to at least one of the upper and the lower vertebrae to at least partially secure in place said one of the upper and lower articular portions. A method of implanting also is disclosed.