This invention concerns a vertebral body replacement element to be inserted into an intervertebral space, thus supporting the spinal column of a patient. The vertebral body replacement element has a hollow upper member and a hollow lower member, with the upper member and lower member engaging in a telescopic manner and establishing a cavity between the two members when assembled. Spacers may be inserted in the cavity to lengthen the vertebral body replacement element. The present invention further concerns a system and method for expanding and distracting a vertebral body replacement element into and within the spinal column of a patient.