| abstract |
The flexible cushioning intervertebral spacer 100 for replacing the vertebral disc includes a top plate 101 and a bottom plate 103, an articulation element 102, and optional intermediate members 804, 805. The articulation element has a plurality of inserted concentric ring shaped segments 202 separated by one or more spaces 201 and one or more bridging elements 203 connecting the inserted segments. The first part of the articulating element, preferably the innermost segment, is preferably fixedly connected to the top plate, while the second part of the articulating element, preferably the outermost segment, is frictionally opposed to each other. It is connected to the bottom plate to allow relative movement of the end plates by elastic deflection of the deflection of the articulation element without surfaces. |