Total disc replacement system and related methods

A total disc replacement implant positionable via a lateral trans-psoas surgical approach to the spine into a position within an intervertebral disc space between a first vertebra and a second vertebra comprising:

• a first anchor plate, said first anchor plate having a first rectangular outer boundary, a first surface for engaging said first vertebra and a second interior surface opposite said first surface, said second interior surface having an integral semi-spherical articulation recess situated within the first outer boundary;
• a second anchor plate, said second anchor plate having second rectangular outer boundary, a third surface for engaging said second vertebra, and a fourth interior surface opposite said third surface, the first anchor plate and second anchor plate together having an implant length defined by a distance along an X-axis, the X-axis being generally parallel to the coronal plane when the implant is positioned within the intervertebral space, an implant width defined by a distance along a Z-axis, the Z-axis being generally parallel to the sagittal plane when the implant is positioned in the intervertebral space, the implant length is at least 40 mm and the implant width being between 18 mma and 22 mm;
• and
• an articulation element joined in a fixed relationship with said fourth interior surface, said articulation element having a semi-spherical articular surface dimensioned to articulate within said recess of said first anchor plate, said articulation element being situated within the second outer boundary.