An nucleus prosthesis is disclosed having a plurality of linked segments
configured to form, in a closed position, a disc shape. A method includes
inserting a plurality of linked segments into an annulus fibrosus and
closing the prosthesis so that a first segment inserted into the annulus
fibrosus and a last segment inserted into the annulus fibrosus are
substantially abutted. Another method includes inserting a plurality of
linked segments into an intervertebral disc space and closing the
prosthesis so that a first segment inserted into the intervertebral disc
space and a last segment inserted into the intervertebral disc space are
substantially abutted.