Apparatus and method for loading a prosthetic nucleus into a deployment cannula to replace the nucleus pulposus of an intervertebral disc

Apparatus and methods are disclosed for implanting a prosthetic nucleus in a chamber of an intervertebral disc after removal of at least a portion of a damaged or degenerated nucleus from the chamber. The apparatus comprises a carrier cartridge, a deployment cannula, releasable connection means, a folding die, and force applying means. The method comprises providing apparatus comprising a carrier cartridge, a deployment cannula, releasable connection means, a folding die and force applying means, applying a force on the prosthetic nucleus in the direction of the cavity to the deployment cannula so as to cause the prosthetic nucleus to move through the folding die and become loaded into the deployment cannula, placing the distal end of the cannula into the chamber of the intervertebral disc, and ejecting the prosthetic nucleus from the deployment cannula so as to implant the prosthetic nucleus in the chamber of the intervertebral disc. Other apparatus and methods are disclosed for loading prosthetic nucleus in a deployment cannula configured for implanting said prosthetic nucleus in the chamber of the intervertebral disc. The apparatus comprises a carrier cartridge, releasable connection means, a folding die, and force applying means. The method comprises providing apparatus comprising a carrier cartridge, releasable connection means, a folding die, and force applying means, applying a force on the prosthetic nucleus in the direction from the cavity to the deployment cannula so as to cause the prosthetic nucleus to move through the folding die and become loaded into the deployment cannula.