Patent attributes
An apparatus for replacing a damaged spinal disc in a spinal column includes a resilient core having a first surface and a second surface. A first retaining device is connected to the first surface of the resilient core. The first retaining device includes an outer surface engageable with a first vertebra of the spinal column and an inner surface facing the first surface of the resilient core. A second retaining device is connected to the second surface of the resilient core. The second retaining device has an outer surface engageable with a second vertebra of the spinal column and an inner surface facing the second surface of the resilient core. The inner surface of the first retaining device is spaced from the core. The core deflects into engagement with the inner surface of the first retaining device upon relative movement between the first and second retaining devices.