Importance

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Abstract

Instrumentation for implanting an intervertebral disc replacement device includes an insertion handle comprising a shaft having a proximal end and a distal end and an engagement member disposed at the distal end of the shaft and operable to detachably engage an insertion plate that maintains first and second members of an intervertebral disc replacement device in registration with one another for substantially simultaneous insertion into an intervertebral disc space of a spinal column. The invention also comprising a method for replacing at least a portion of an intervertebral disc in a spinal column, comprising the steps of removing the portion of the intervertebral disc from the spinal column and manipulating an insertion handle that is detachably engaged with an insertion plate that is coupled to first and second members of an intervertebral disc replacement device such that the first and second members may be substantially, simultaneously inserted into an intervertebral disc space of the spinal column, wherein the first and second members are engageable with and operable to permit the vertebral bones to articulate with respect to one another.

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First Claim