The present invention provides artificial disc prostheses, methods and
instrumentation for implantation and revision thereof. Each prosthesis
may comprise superior and inferior end plates and a nucleus positioned
between articular surfaces of the end plates. The end plates may have
planar bone engagement surfaces with a plurality of self-cutting teeth.
The articular surfaces of the end plates may be planar or include a
flattened portion. The nucleus includes superior and inferior articular
surfaces which may comprise flattened portions such that when the
articular surfaces of the nucleus and the end plates are placed in
cooperation in a preferred orientation, the flattened and/or planar
portions are aligned. Each prosthesis may provide flexion/extension,
anterior/posterior translation, lateral bending, and/or axial rotation
degrees of freedom. One embodiment comprises a prosthesis with a first
joint providing flexion/extension and anterior/posterior translation, and
a second joint providing lateral bending and axial rotation.