An inter-vertebral implant wherein at least one of the side walls defining
a hole from the exterior of the implant to the fusion promotion cavity
and having a posterior portion and an anterior portion, the side wall
hole being elongated in a direction between the posterior and anterior
ends of the side wall hole. In some embodiments, the side wall hole is
tapered toward the posterior portion of the implant and can be tear drop
shaped. In some embodiments the cephalad and caudal surfaces may be
convex with radii of curvature which can be the same for all implant
sizes. The surfaces may include teeth which can extend beyond a central
cavity. A nose, tapered in the saggital and transverse planes may be
included on the anterior end of the implant. Some embodiments also
include a threaded hole (with a depth that can be the same for all
implant sizes) and an adjoining slot for engaging an insertion
instrument. Each of the portions of the implant can have the same length
for all implant sizes.