An adaptable spinal facet joint prosthesis, including a pedicle fixation
element; a laminar fixation element; and a facet joint bearing surface
having a location adaptable with respect at least one of the pedicle
fixation element and the laminar fixation element. The invention also
includes a method of implanting an adaptable spinal facet joint
prosthesis including the steps of determining a desired position for a
facet joint bearing surface; and attaching a prosthesis comprising a
facet joint bearing surface to a pedicle portion of a vertebra and a
lamina portion of a vertebra to place the facet joint bearing surface in
the desired position. The invention also provides a facet joint
prosthesis implant tool including a tool guide adapted to guide a
vertebra cutting tool; and first and second fixation hole alignment
elements extending from the saw guide.