An interbody fusion device in one embodiment includes a tapered body
defining a hollow interior or chamber for receiving bone graft or bone
substitute material. The body defines exterior threads which are
interrupted over portions of the outer surface of the device. The fusion
device includes truncated side walls so that on end view the body takes
on a cylindrical form. In another embodiment, the tapered body is solid
and formed of a porous biocompatible material having sufficient
structural integrity to maintain the intradiscal space and normal
curvature. The material is preferably a porous tantalum composite having
fully interconnected pores to facilitate complete bone tissue ingrowth
into the implant. In further embodiments, the fusion devices are provided
with osteogenic material to facilitate bone ingrowth. A cap is also
provided to block the opening of hollow fusion devices. The cap includes
an occlusion body and an elongated anchor. In some embodiments the anchor
includes a lip which is engageable to openings in the body wall. Tools
are also provided for manipulating caps for interbody fusion devices. In
one embodiment the tool includes a pair of prongs each having facing
engagement surfaces for engaging the fusion device, and a shaft slidably
disposed between the prongs. The shaft has a first end defining a
cap-engaging tip for engaging a tool hole in the cap. In one embodiment
the cap engaging tip defines threads. In another embodiment the prongs
include a pair of releasing members on each of the facing engagement
surfaces. The releasing members have a height and a width for being
insertable into apertures in a body wall in the fusion device to
disengage the elongate anchors from the apertures.