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Abstract

An implant assembly 10 is provided for surgical implantation into an intervertebral space S, such as for stabilization of vertebrae V adjacent the intervertebral space S during a spinal fusion procedure. The implant assembly 10 includes a primary segment 20 separate from a secondary segment 60. These segments 20, 60 are elongate and of sufficiently small cross-section that they can be implanted posteriorly in a minimally invasive manner. The segments 20, 60 preferably have a rectangular cross-section so that they can be inserted on a side into the intervertebral space S and then rotated into a maximum height orientation to widen the intervertebral space S. The segments 20, 60 interlock together at an intersection there between. The primary segment 20 preferably includes a tunnel 30 and the secondary segment 60 preferably includes a neck 70 with the tunnel 30 and neck 70 sized complementally so that the segments 20, 60 stabilize each other where they intersect with the neck 70 within the tunnel 30. The entire implant assembly 10 is thus provided which both widens and supports the intervertebral space S and is sufficiently rigid to provide adequate support for the intervertebral space S as the vertebrae V are fusing together. The segments 20, 60 are fitted with height expansion systems which can be accessed after implantation of the segments 20, 60 so that height of the segments 20, 60 can be further increased, particularly at distal ends 26, 66 of the segments 20, 60, such that the intervertebral space S can be provided with a desirable amount of lordosis.

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First Claim