A radiolucent intervertebral prosthesis is implanted in an environment that has been prepared in a manner which enhances radiopacity of the prosthesis and/or the environment. A liquid, powder, or other fluid radiopaque (RO) material, such as iohexol, is introduced into an implantation site, either by directly introducing the material into the site and/or by applying the material to a surface of the implant. The presence of the RO material in the implantation site provides contrast with the material of radiolucent prosthesis while the implantation site is being radiographically imaged, e.g. during fluoroscopic visualization while the prosthesis is being implanted. During implantation, the RO material helps the physician view and manipulate the implant, and after the implantation is complete, the RO material will be resorbed or otherwise lost from the implantation site so that the area returns to a radiolucent condition to facilitate subsequent radiographic imaging when needed.
