An artificial intervertebral disc having a pair of opposing baseplates,
for seating against opposing vertebral bone surfaces, uses a
semispherical, bored bearing that is secured to the baseplates with
compression locking posts and one or more retaining caps. The compression
locking posts extend through the bearing bore and baseplate apertures
such that the bearing is between the baseplates' inwardly facing
surfaces. Retaining caps are attached to the compression locking posts,
securing the baseplates to the bearing. Bearing surfaces on the inwardly
facing side of each baseplate allow each baseplate to rotate relative to
the bearing, however, rotation of each baseplate is limited by the
interference of each baseplate and its respective retaining cap. Rotation
of the baseplates about the longitudinal axis of the spine can be limited
via a notch in the retaining caps and a groove in the baseplates, or vice
versa.