An intervertebral disc prosthesis comprises a superior endplate and an
inferior endplate. The superior and inferior endplates include vertebra
fixation surfaces designed to engage vertebral bodies. A composite
material is provided on the vertebra fixation surfaces. The composite
material includes an osteoconductive component and an osteoinductive
component. The osteoconductive component provides a porous matrix or base
that facilitates bone growth. The osteoinductive component provides a
stimulant material that encourages growth of the bone cells between the
osteoconductive component of the endplate and the vertebral body facing
the endplate. In one embodiment, the osteoconductive component is
permeated by an osteoinductive material to provide the composite
material. In another embodiment, the composite material includes a
non-resorbable portion that includes osteoconductive substances and a
resorbable portion that is doped with osteoinductive substances.