| abstract |
One embodiment of a spinal implant 10 includes a body 11 sized and configured for engagement between adjacent vertebrae V. The body 11 includes two opposite faces 12, 14 and an outer surface 13 between the two faces 12, 14. The body 11 includes a porous biocompatible material for permitting tissue ingrowth therethrough. A sleeve 15 is disposed around the outer surface 13 of the body 11. The sleeve 15 is composed of a second material which is relatively stronger under compressive loads than the biocompatible material of the body 11. Also provided is a plurality of apertures 16 through the sleeve 15 in communication with the outer surface 13 of the body 11 for bone ingrowth. Means for attaching the sleeve to the endplates of adjoining vertebral bodies are also provided. |