Intervertebral spacers, tools for implanting intervertebral spacers and
methods of promoting fusion bone growth in the space between adjacent
vertebrae are provided. The spacers include an elongated body having a
first end, a second end and an outer surface. Side walls connect the
first and second ends. The elongated body also defines an interior
cavity. The side wall defines an opening to the interior cavity in a side
of the elongated body. At least one of the first and second ends has a
discontinuity, such as a concave surface, for nesting with an adjacent
spacer. The tools include spacer engaging means for engaging a spacer and
occlusion means for blocking an opening defined in the spacer. In some
embodiments, the occlusion means includes a plate extendible from the
housing. In one specific embodiment the plate defines a groove which is
disposed around a fastener attached to the housing so that the plate is
slideable relative to the housing. The methods of promoting fusion bone
growth include utilizing the inventive spacers described herein.