Intervertebral implants and related systems and methods

Abstract

Disclosed are intervertebral devices for insertion between and/or adjacent to vertebrae of a patient, incorporating apertures for fastening devices which include fastener locking and/or retaining elements.

1 . An intervertebral device, comprising:
 a body configured for insertion between adjacent vertebrae of a patient, the body including a wall having a first surface, a second surface, and a thickness extending between the first and second surfaces, wherein the wall includes a through aperture extending between a first opening on the first surface and a second opening on the second surface, the through aperture configured to receive a first fastening element;   a recess disposed in a side wall of the aperture and extending into the thickness of the body in a direction substantially transverse to an axis of the aperture;   the first fastening element positioned at least partially within the through aperture, the first fastening element positioned adjacent to the recess; and   a second fastening element positioned adjacent the first fastening element, the second fastening element advanced into contact with first fastening element to urge at least a portion of the first fastening element into the recess.   
     
     
         2 . The device of  claim 1 , wherein application of a force on the first fastening element by the second fastening element is configured to laterally urge the first fastening element relative to the recess.