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Abstract

A surgical method of inserting a prosthetic system between first and second vertebrae spaced by a disc to limit motion between and to facilitate fusion of the first and second vertebrae. The method includes the steps of exposing the first and second vertebrae and the disc, excising at least a portion of the disc from between the first and second vertebrae, and scraping the cartilage from facing surfaces of the vertebrae to expose the facing surfaces. The method also includes the steps of spacing the first and second vertebrae by a selected distance and simultaneously cutting grooves in the facing surfaces of the vertebrae using a cutting tool having opposing blades. A mechanical prosthesis is anchored in the grooves cut in the facing surfaces of the vertebrae so that the prosthesis extends between the vertebrae and limits motion between the vertebrae. In addition, the method includes the step of packing bone graft material between the vertebrae and around the mechanical prosthesis to promote bone growth between and facilitate fusion of the vertebrae. In addition, a spinal prothesis and instruments for inserting the prosthesis are disclosed.

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First Claim