Design rationale and biomechanics of Maverick Total Disc arthroplasty with early clinical results.

This paper reviews the design criteria, biomechanical and biological (wear and safety) testing of this chrome cobalt metal-on-metal, ball and socket design prosthesis. The surgical technique and early clinical results of the initial implantations are also reviewed. Initial results of 7 Maverick implantations showed all 7 patients attaining a 15 point Oswestry improvement within 3 months after implantation. This early result in a small sample is significantly quicker in recovery and improvement when compared to the historical control of the LT cage with Infuse IDE study. Longer term results and more careful study are needed of this interesting and optimistic finding.