Nucleus pulposus implants that are resistant to migration in and/or
expulsion from an intervertebral disc space are provided. In one form of
the invention, an implant includes a load bearing elastic body surrounded
in the disc space by an anchoring, preferably resorbable, outer shell. In
certain forms of the invention, the elastic body is surrounded by a
supporting member, such as a band or jacket, and the supporting member is
surrounded by the outer shell. Kits for forming such implants are also
provided. In another form of the invention, an implant is provided that
has locking features and optional shape memory characteristics. In yet
another aspect of the invention, nucleus pulposus implants are provided
that have shape memory characteristics and are configured to allow
short-term manual, or other deformation without permanent deformation,
cracks, tears, breakage or other damage. Methods of forming and
implanting the implants are also described, as are delivery devices and
components thereof for delivering the implants.