Implants based on engineered metal matrix composite materials having enhanced imaging and wear resistance

A spinal implant assembly for insertion between adjacent first and second vertebrae, said implant comprising:

• a first plate including a first surface configured to engage the first vertebra and an opposite second surface, and
• a second plate including a third surface configured to engage the second vertebra and an opposite fourth surface having a bearing portion configured to engage the second surface of the first plate, wherein said first and second plates comprise a metal matrix composite including a metallic matrix and a reinforcing component dispersed within the metallic matrix;
• and
• wherein the first plate or the second plate comprises a metal matrix composite having a bimodal porosity.

A spinal implant assembly for insertion between adjacent first and second vertebrae, said implant comprising:

• a first plate including a first surface configured to engage the first vertebra and an opposite second surface, and
• a second plate including a third surface configured to engage the second vertebra and an opposite fourth surface having a bearing portion configured to engage the second surface of the first plate, wherein said first and second plates comprise a metal matrix composite including a metallic matrix and a reinforcing component dispersed within the metallic matrix;
• and
• wherein the first plate comprises a first metal matrix composite and the second plate comprises a second metal matrix composite different from the first metal matrix composite.

A spinal implant assembly for insertion between adjacent first and second vertebrae, said implant comprising:

• a first plate including a first surface configured to engage the first vertebra and an opposite second surface, and
• a second plate including a third surface configured to engage the second vertebra and an opposite fourth surface having a bearing portion configured to engage the second surface of the first plate, wherein said first and second plates comprise a metal matrix composite including a metallic matrix and a reinforcing component dispersed within the metallic matrix;
• and
• wherein the first surface of the first plate has a bimodal porous structure.